Washington, DC - On June 14, the American Red Cross, in partnership with Nexcare Bandages and supermodel Niki Taylor, will celebrate World Blood Donor Day to raise awareness about the ongoing need for blood and platelets. All eligible donors are urged to roll up a sleeve to give blood or platelets to help maintain the blood supply and prevent a shortage this summer.
“I am proud to team up with the Nexcare Give Program each year, with the mission of sparking a critical dialogue around the vital need for blood donation,” said supermodel and Red Cross ambassador, Niki Taylor. “For me, the cause is also a personal one. Following a car accident 15 years ago that left me in critical condition, the efforts of the American Red Cross and their brave donors saved my life. In honor of World Blood Donor Day, I am sharing my story and encouraging people around the world to support blood donation, inspiring their friends and families to join the cause.”
As part of this partnership, Nexcare has developed a collection of limited-edition bandages surrounding this year’s theme, “Feel the Beat, Give Blood,” to remind donors of the importance of blood donation. The 2016 collection of bandages features five vibrant dance-inspired designs reflecting different styles and cultures from around the globe. The limited-edition bandages will be available to those who come out to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross now through World Blood Donor Day on June 14.
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a lifesaving blood transfusion. The Red Cross must collect approximately 14,000 blood donations every day to meet the needs of patients at 2,600 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide.
Make a lifesaving difference
To schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors of all blood types are currently needed as right now, blood and platelet donations are being distributed to hospitals as quickly as donations come in.
Those who wish to show support and share personal blood donation stories with others on social media are encouraged to use the hashtag #GiveInspires in their posts, tweets and photos.
How to donate blood
A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
