By Nancy Degnan

World Cancer Day, celebrated on February 4, has an inspirational theme for 2022. Their campaign, Close the Care Gap, invites all of us, across the globe, to accept a call to action to help others in need. Small contributions can ignite dramatic changes. Visit World Cancer Day – What happens when we act?  to learn more.

The American Red Cross joins the efforts presented by World Cancer Day along with many champion partners to lead the battle on behalf of cancer patients. When we come together with a display of care and compassion, we raise awareness to drive at common goals.

How can you help?

Did you know that cancer patients use nearly one quarter of the blood supply? This is more than patients fighting any other disease. During treatment, a cancer patient may endure intensive chemotherapy and radiation therapy that can both damage the body’s ability to regenerate healthy blood cells and present life-threatening conditions. Blood and platelet transfusions can aid a patient and may help them win the fight over their cancer.

The current health care landscape has jeopardized our blood supply. We are currently experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. One small way to make a significant impact to help cancer patients is through blood donation.

Getting involved – Your Gift

Your donation could be a perfect match to give a patient the gift of time. When you donate blood or platelets you are helping cancer patients receive lifesaving care.

Learn more about your blood donation and its journey to a patient in need and how blood donations  help patients.  The Red Cross offers a step-by-step process and guidance on the donation process to ensure it is easy for anyone to donate.    

If you are interested in becoming a donor and would like more information about our organization, visit our website – RedCrossBlood.org.

We offer multiple options to find a blood drive to make an appointment. Make an appointment by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

What to know about the Coronavirus and Blood Donation

The Red Cross wants to keep you informed on COVID-19 protocols as we consider your health and well-being a priority. You are eligible to donate blood, platelets, or plasma after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Learn more by reviewing the categories outlined on our website that include Red Cross Donation Safety Protocols, COVID-19 Vaccine and Blood Donor Eligibility Information, Travel and Deferral Information, and Limit The Spread Of Germs and Prevent Infection.