Miller-Keystone Blood Center has issued an urgent appeal for Blood donors of all Blood types. “Blood donations traditionally decrease during the winter months due to inclement weather and seasonal illnesses,” explains Michael McShane, Senior Director of Recruitment, Development and Marketing. “However, more than 450 donors are needed every day in our community to help in the care of cancer patients, accident victims, premature infants and others requiring lifesaving transfusions at our regional hospitals.”

Mr. McShane notes that just one major trauma or disaster could have devastating effects on the Blood Center’s ability to provide for the transfusion needs of our community.

“While we’ve had a decrease in the number of people donating, the demand at our hospitals remains steady,” Mr. McShane continued. “We would just like to remind people that Blood cannot be manufactured, it can only come from the kind generosity of volunteer Blood donors. If there is ever a time to donate, now is that time.”

Individuals registering to donate from Friday 1/25 thru Sunday 2/3 will receive Double Bonus Points that can be redeemed in Miller-Keystone’s Lifesaver Rewards Store, and all registered donors will be entered into a raffle to win an Alexa Device.

In order to donate, individuals must be 16 years of age* or older, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be feeling healthy; they must not have donated in the past eight weeks. All donors must also provide valid identification. (* – parental consent required for 16-year-old donors)

For more information or to schedule a donation, call 1-800-B-A-DONOR (223-6667). Donors can also visit GIVEaPINT.org to schedule an appointment online or find a Blood Drive in their community.