Red Cross to hold 9th Annual Hurricane Katrina blood drive

“Adding blood or platelet donation to a vacation to-do list can mean so much to patients and their families”, said Josh Hauser, Communications Manager for the the American Red Cross Greater Alleghenies Blood Services Region. These are the most in demand blood types and are in constant need, English said.

The Red Cross says blood is urgently needed and is encouraging everyone who is able to donate to do so. Plasma from type AB donors can be transfused to patients of any blood type, as can type O negative blood.

Woodland Hills: American Red Cross Pomona Blood Donation Center at 6338 Variel Ave. Type B negative and A negative blood can be transfused to Rh-positive or negative patients.

“Voluntary blood donation reduces maternal mortality and helps patients suffering from blood related diseases such as sickle cell anaemia, victims of gunshot injuries and accident victims, among others, ” he said.

To make an appointment to donate, call 1 800-RED-CROSS, visit redcrossblood.org or download the Red Cross Blood Donor app. Use sponsor code: Katrina Walk-ins are welcome. Type AB blood can be given to patients of all blood types.

September 21: Korte Recreation Center, 1 Nagel Drive in Highland, 3 to 7 p.m.

Following are opportunities to donate blood.

Moorpark: 9 a.m.to 8:15 p.m. Monday., August 24 and Thurs., 27 at Moorpark College, 7075 Campus Road.

Donors with type AB blood are urged to give blood or platelets to restock the plasma supply.

High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.