HURRICANE KATRINA IMPACTS
ALREADY FRAGILE BLOOD SUPPLY

(Blood Donors Needed Now)

As Hurricane Katrina comes ashore along the Gulf Coast, she impacts an already fragile blood supply.  Many of the American Red Cross’ Alabama-Central Gulf Coast blood collection operations have already been suspended in affected areas.  As the storm moves inland, operations in an even wider area are expected to be impacted.

The blood supply has been at critical levels for most blood types, but especially types O and B, throughout the summer.  Now, with a holiday weekend looming and the effects of Katrina, the blood supply could drop to dangerous levels.  The Red Cross is urging individuals who can safely travel to blood donation centers and blood drives to do so as soon as possible.

“Hospital patients throughout the Gulf Coast area are still in need of blood,” commented Chris Hrouda, vice president of the Southeast Division of the American Red Cross which includes the Gulf Coast areas of Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, as well as Georgia and North and South Carolina.  “The Red Cross is counting on its blood donors to help us meet patient needs in our local area as well as provide assistance to those in the storm’s path.”

 Thurs. Sept. 1             Holy Communion Lutheran Church, 103 W. Trade St., Dallas
                                     3:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Fri. Sept. 2                  Kohl’s Department Store, 3648 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia
                                    10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Tues.  Sept. 6             American Red Cross Chapter House, 190 S. Oakland St.,
                                    3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

 

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in general good health.  A photo ID is also required.  To make an appointment or locate the nearest blood drive, call the Gaston County Chapter at 704-864-2623