During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September, the Red Cross is asking eligible doors to give blood or platelets to help kids, teens and young adults battling cancer; as well as others in need of transfusions.
Ronnika McFall is a spokesperson with the organization.
“According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 15,000 children and adolescents in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer each year,” said McFall. “Cancer and cancer treatments can put patients at risk of low red blood cells and platelet counts. Childhood cancer patients may need blood products on a regular basis during chemotherapy, surgery, or treatment of complications; and of course platelet transfusions are often needed by patients with cancer to help prevent life-threatening bleeding.”
In addition, the Red Cross is currently testing all donations for coronavirus antibodies.
“So if you are healthy and feeling well, you can come out and donate your blood and in about seven to 10 days, you would see your antibody results in the donor portal or in the donor app.”
For those who cannot donate, the agency asks you to consider hosting a blood drive.
“So if you are an organization or you’re over an organization, or have a huge building that we can have a blood drive at, please visit RedCrossBlood.org/hostadrive.”
McFall says all blood drives are using additional precautions during the pandemic. They include, temperature checks, social distancing, and mandatory face coverings in addition to sanitizing measures.
To schedule an appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-Red Cross-that’s 1-800-733-2767.
