The American Red Cross is always seeking active blood donors, but April is a time when they want to remind folks that a stable blood supply is necessary to support those with different blood needs.
April is National Minority Health Month, which is a time to raise awareness about health disparities that disproportionally affect racial and ethnic minority populations.
An example is sickle cell disease, which mostly impacts those of African and Latin descent. Cooley’s anemia primarily affects those of Asian descent. Also, postpartum hemorrhage is more likely to impact black women than white women.
Blood drives are being held in Manitowoc County later this month and in early-May, to ensure all patients have the blood they need, regardless of their backgrounds.
On April 25 in Manitowoc, a drive will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Shoreline Credit Union. Also in Manitowoc, on May 2 from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., a drive will be held at the Manitowoc Senior Center.
In Two Rivers, a drive will be held on April 26 from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Two Rivers High School.
Those who donate blood between April 19 and May 18 will receive a $10 electronic gift card to a merchant of choice and will be entered to win a new travel trailer camper.
More information can be found at RedCrossBlood.org.
