Community Corner
Red Cross Needs Blood, Platelets After Hurricane Irene
Hurricane Irene has forced more than 60 blood drives to be canceled and is likely to delay even more, depleting the blood supply necessary for such emergencies.
The American Red Cross of Southeastern Michigan is asking area residents to donate blood or platelets to help make up the supply lost due to Hurricane Irene.
The organization is asking anyone who lives in unaffected areas to donate to help maintain its supply level to serve those who regularly receive the donations, such as those with blood disorders, cancer patients and/or accident victims, according to a press release issued today.
Platelets are especially important because of their five-day shelf life, according to the release.
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The region's Red Cross organization collects about 900 units of blood daily, which are distributed to 43 hospitals. Nationally, the organization needs 44,000 donations daily to meet the demands and the cancellations of more than 60 drives due to Hurricane Irene have caused them to lose 2,100 units thus far, according to the release.
Anyone who wishes to donate may schedule an appointment through the Red Cross website or by calling 1-800-733-2767.
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Area drives scheduled in the next week include:
- Sept. 4 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pointe Fitness, 19556 Harper Ave., Harper Woods
- Sept. 6 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Wayne State University Medical School, 540 E. Canfield, Detroit
- Sept. 6 from 2 to 8 p.m. at VFW Post 1146, 28404 E. Jefferson, St. Clair Shores
- Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grosse Pointe Woods Community Center, 20025 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods
For more drives, check the list of local donation sites.
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