This time of year, factors such as winter storms may cause blood drives to be cancelled, and illnesses reduce the number of eligible donors. To help combat the shortages this causes, the Red Cross recognizes January as National Blood Donor Month.
At any given time, certain blood types may be in very short supply. The Blood Center of Wisconsin provides information on their website about shortages in the state and online appointment scheduling. A COVID-19 Antibody Test will be performed on all blood donations as part of their standard testing.
You can be a literal life-saving hero this January. Even if you’ve never donated blood before and don’t know your blood type, you can donate blood if you:
- Are at least 16 years old
- Weigh at least 110 pounds
- Are in good health and are feeling well
- And have not donated blood within the last 56 days
It only takes about an hour and can help individuals suffering from cancer, affected by genetic diseases, or critically injured in accidents. Donate blood and be a life saver this January!
