Hurricane Michael is the second large-scale relief effort the American Red Cross is responding to in less than a month.
Severe weather forces the cancellation of blood drives and decreases donor turnout in the affected areas, which results in thousands of blood donations going uncollected, according to Angie O’Brien, account representative with the American Red Cross.
The University of Toledo Medical Center is answering the call for help and will host an American Red Cross blood drive Wednesday, Oct. 24, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Morse Center, located on the third floor of Dowling Hall.
“Hurricane Michael’s impact will be felt for weeks to come,” O’Brien said. “We are counting on sponsors like The University of Toledo in unaffected areas to ensure we have enough blood products to support patient needs.”
Along with the Oct. 24 blood drive, UT will host several blood drives over the next six weeks.
“Every drop counts,” O’Brien said. “Our goal is to fill all available appointment slots and make sure those who schedule in advance keep their appointments or reschedule for another time if there is a conflict.”
To schedule an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code UTMED. Or call 1.800.RED.CROSS (733.2767) for further information and scheduling.
