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The snowstorm left a hefty mess in its wake to clean up last week. But that was the least of Andrew Sindell's worries. The snowstorm and the dangerous travel conditions it created forced many blood drives to be canceled. About 250 pints of blood went uncollected.
Sindell, director of community services for the Greenwich branch of the American Red Cross, said it needs Type O negative blood donors because inventory has dropped.
"A number of blood drives were closed across the state," he said. "We can prepare our upcoming drives with additional staff if we have a greater number of sign-ups before a drive takes place. We are in no way preparing upcoming drives with more staff/equipment. This can only be done far in advance if our appointment numbers are higher than usual."
Type O negative blood is a universal blood type and can be transfused to anyone, which makes it a go-to in emergency situations. Sindell said anyone who is over the age of 17, weighs at least 110 pounds and is in good health can give blood. According to the American Red Cross, 39,000 units of blood are needed for patients nationwide for ongoing care and emergencies.
To encourage winter blood donors, Sindell said the American Red Cross joined forces with Dunkin' Donuts. Anyone who gives blood through Jan. 31 will receive a pound of Dunkin' Donuts coffee.
The next blood drive in Greenwich is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 3, at Temple Sholom from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767.
Let's chat: Were you planning to give blood before last week's snowstorm hit? Leave a comment below or send an email to acorbett@mainstreetconnect.us.
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