Red Cross Urges Travelers to Add Blood Donation to Vacation List

The organization faces a potential blood supply shortage this summer.

ByABC News
June 29, 2015, 10:55 AM
Technician Greg Snyder finishes up a blood draw from Chris Page after he donated blood in an Indiana Blood Center Bloodmobile in Indianapolis, Aug. 20, 2013.
Technician Greg Snyder finishes up a blood draw from Chris Page after he donated blood in an Indiana Blood Center Bloodmobile in Indianapolis, Aug. 20, 2013.
Michael Conroy/AP Photo

— -- Before you hit the beach this week, the Red Cross would like you to donate some blood.

A recent survey of its regular blood and platelet donors found that more than 40 percent of Red Cross supporters plan to be away over the next two weeks in celebration of the 4th of July holiday. That, combined with fewer blood drives being scheduled due to planned vacations, could potentially contribute to a summer shortage, according to the organization.

"Adding blood or platelet donation to a vacation to-do list can mean so much to patients and their families," Donna M. Morrissey, director of national partnerships at American Red Cross Biomedical Services said in a statement. "It's a simple act, taking as little as an hour, but can touch many lives."

In addition to helping one's community, donors who schedule an appointment between July 2 and July 6 will receive a Red Cross embroidered baseball cap, while supplies last.

More information is available via the free Blood Donor App, redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).