Give Blood. Save a Life

Our conversation today with Stacy McFarland, Executive Director for the Greater Shenandoah Valley chapter of the American Red Cross included a discussion about the nationwide blood shortage and the importance of blood donation. Stacy emphasized the need for O-positive and O-negative blood donors, as these types can be used in emergency situations and are always in demand. She also cited a loss of over 40% of the Red Cross's donor base over the past 20 years as a contributing factor to the shortage. Despite the situation not being critical yet, Stacy highlighted the importance of replenishing the blood supply, particularly in the coming weeks. Stacy emphasized that blood shortages can have a significant impact on various situations such as emergency rooms, elective surgeries, and cancer treatments. She pointed out the need for diverse blood donors, particularly for sickle cell patients who require a close match in blood antigens for transfusions. Stacy also shared information about a new feature in Virginia where residents can include their blood type on their driver's license. We discussed the blood donation process and Stacy emphasized the benefits of blood donation for both the donor and the recipient, including health checks and potential improvements to health. She mentioned that the Red Cross blood donor app can be used to schedule donations, complete a series of questions, and receive a QR code to speed up the check-in process. She outlined the steps involved in donating blood, the health history check, blood pressure check, and the donation process itself. Donors are encouraged to stay for 10-15 minutes after donating to recover and enjoy cookies and juice. Stacy clarified that people taking blood pressure medication can donate blood as long as their blood pressure is at a healthy level and they meet the age requirements (ages 16-18 require a parent in attendance.) She emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and adequate hydration before and after donating.  Stacy explained that most blood donations stay within the local community for logistical reasons. She also mentioned that donors are notified when their blood is used and that it does not stay on the shelves for long. Stacy told us that January is historically the lowest month for blood donation. This year, the shortage was exacerbated by the nationwide weather and the holidays. Before we wrapped up, Stacy shared details about Red Cross and the National Football League (NFL) partnering this January, during National Blood Donor Month, to urge individuals to give blood or platelets and help tackle the emergency blood shortage. Those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma in January will automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Super Bowl. Learn more about blood donation and/or make an appointment here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/