There is a critical shortage of blood donations in Michigan. While this time of year, donations are typically low due to the holidays and flu season, hospitals are feeling the shortage as some have reported having just a day’s worth of blood on hand. The Red Cross and other agencies that supply blood and platelets to the medical community have put out a plea for help, and designated January as Blood Donor Month. Eligible donors are encouraged to try to make blood donations a habit to help save lives. Currently, O and O+ blood types are in the highest demand, as those types have universal applications. The Red Cross is also offering an added incentive to donors this month. Donors are automatically entered into a drawing for a trip to the Super Bowl in Miami. There are blood drives planned at McLaren Port Huron, the St. Clair County Administration Building, and other locations over the next month. You can make your appointment at redcrossblood.org.
