WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER DONATING BLOOD

There are eight major blood types and 600 proteins on red blood cells.  Blood type is an essential component of who you are, and it has the power to save lives.  Blood donations depend on continuous donor participation, and the need is higher now than ever.  Consider donating blood, plasma, or platelets.  It will let you find out your blood type, and you can also make a significant impact in your community.

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER DONATING BLOOD
By Pierre Mouchette | Bits-n-Pieces

In January 2022, the American Red Cross proclaimed a blood shortage emergency.  Health care providers are delaying surgeries, and people are going without transfusions because of inadequate blood donations.
Did you know a blood transfusion is necessary every 2 seconds in the U.S., and a blood contribution is only good for 42 days?  There is no way to make blood.  It only comes from donations.  So if people are not donating, there is no way to keep pace with the need.
 
When you know your blood type, the following are facts to consider:

• Type O negative: You are a universal blood donor, and anyone can get your blood.  Emergency rooms and operating rooms universally stock your blood type for use in a crisis.  You have the preferred blood type for premature babies without fully-formed immune systems.  You may be eligible for the “Heroes for Babies” program!
  
  
• Type O positive: You have the most common blood type, and your blood type is always in demand.  It is the most needed.  If you also test negative for cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibodies, you are qualified for the “Heroes for Babies” program.
  
  
• Type A positive: You have the second leading blood type, and there is always a need for your blood type.  You can additionally choose platelet contribution.
  
  
• Type A negative or B negative: These blood types are less common than their positive counterparts.  However, you may be qualified for a “Power Red” donation.  Just 2% of people are Type B negative, so you can make a significant impact by donating.  For those who have Type A-negative blood, you should consider platelet donation.
  
  
• Type AB positive or AB negative: Your blood type is rare!  A blood donation is always appreciated, though it would help more people by donating your plasma in its place.  Blood plasma donations are lifesaving and in short supply.
  
  
• Rare blood types: The lab will check if you have a rare blood type when you donate blood.  You may end up being a diamond donor!