Superstorm Sandy has caused the cancellation of moore than 300 American Red Cross blood drives and more cancellations are expected as power continues to be out in areas of the Northeast.
So far, the cancellations have resulted in a shortfall of more than 9,000 blood and platelet donations across 14 states that would otherwise be available for those needing transfusions. The situation may worsen as the aftermath and recovery begin.
The Red Cross did move blood and blood products to those areas most likely to be affected by Sandy so that the blood needs of people in those communities could be met. However, the long- term impact of power outages and blood drive cancellations is expected to be significant.
To schedule a blood donation or for more information about giving blood or platelets, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. An average of 44,000 blood donations are needed each and every day across the country to help treat accident victims, cancer patients, and children with blood disorders. These patients and others rely on blood products during their treatment. This need does not diminish when disaster strikes.
Blood drives in Chautauqua County include:
Nov. 5 - Eason Hall, Westfield, 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 7 - Stanley Hose Co., Sherman, 2-8 p.m.
Nov. 11- First Lutheran Church, Jamestown, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 13 - SUNY Fredonia Williams Center, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Nov. 14- Sheridan VFW Post, 2-7 p.m.
Nov. 15 - SUNY Fredonia Williams Center, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Nov. 19 - Blessed Mary Angela RC Church, Dunkirk, 12-6 p.m.
Nov. 20 - First United Church Silver Creek, 12-5 p.m.
Nov. 23 - Chautauqua Mall, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 27- Portland Fire Dept., 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 29 - Chautauqua Lake Central School, 12-5 p.m.
