Snow Storms Affect Local Blood Supply

With the snow storm last week, some of the blood drives across New York State were canceled. The ones that did take place were affected by donors who could not make it to their scheduled appointments due to the amount of snow that fell. The American Red Cross needs your help to help save lives. There is a blood drive in honor of Cooper Bush taking place at the American Legion Post 1194 on West Service Highway in Binghamton tomorrow (Thursday) from 3 p.m. till 7 p.m. Cooper is a young boy who is battling cancer and is receiving an experimental chemotherapy as you read this. There is a good chance that this toddler will need blood transfusions. You can just walk in to make a blood donation or call ahead to make an appointment by dialing 1-800-Red-Cross, or sign up at the Red Cross website. If you can't make it to that blood drive but you still want to help, call the American Red Cross or visit their website for upcoming blood drives.
One in three people will need blood at some point in their life. Cancer patients, premature babies, trauma victims, and people undergoing surgery are those who need blood the most. Just one hour of your time can save up to three lives. I have met a lot of people over the years that have needed blood at some point, so I know how important it is.There is such a small number of blood donors, but such a huge need. And, then when there is a storm like the one we saw on Friday, a lot of blood drives get canceled, putting even more of a strain on the blood supply.

Please, if you can, donate blood. You will feel great and you never know, the blood you donate might save someone you love.