Press release from the American Red Cross:
American Red Cross Celebrates Blood Collectors Week
The American Red Cross is rolling out the red carpet this September to honor the front-line staff that assist blood donors in rolling up their sleeves.
From September 13 to 19, the Red Cross will join blood centers across the country in recognizing the Fifth Annual Blood Collectors Week. This annual week acknowledges the critical role blood collectors play in helping to ensure blood is available to hospital patients.
“We couldn’t do what we do without our front-line employees out there every day, collecting blood,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO for the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross. “Our collections staff are truly the heart of the American Red Cross.”
Blood collection professionals serve an important role in educating blood donors, and helping to ensure a comfortable blood donation experience. The Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross employs over 170 collections staff who work in blood donation centers or on blood drives in over 50 counties.
“We’re proud of our staff and the dedication they show to helping to save lives through the American Red Cross,” said Whitman. “This is our chance to say thank you to all of them for choosing a lifesaving profession and for the commitment they’ve made to blood donors, hospital patients and the community.”
Eligible blood donors are encouraged to show their support for blood collections professionals by making and keeping an appointment to give blood during Blood Collectors Week. For details on the Fifth Annual Blood Collectors Week, visit the website.
Click here to see a list of upcoming American Red Cross blood drives in your area.
How to Donate Blood
Individuals who are at least 17 years old (16 with parental permission in Indiana), meet height and weight requirements (at least 110 pounds based on height) and are in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. Red Cross donor card or positive ID required. Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or log on for more information.
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