Emergency Blood Request

The American Red Cross has issued an emergency request for donors of all blood types to roll up a
sleeve and help save lives. Red Cross blood donations were down by about 10 percent across the
country in June, with about 50,000 fewer donations than expected.

“We’re asking for the public’s help now to prevent a more serious shortage,” said Stephanie Millian,
spokesperson for the Red Cross. “Each day donations come up short, less blood is available for patients
in need. It’s the blood products on the shelves today that help save lives in an emergency.”

July can be among the most challenging months of the year to collect enough blood and platelet
donations. Many regular donors become busy with summer activities and are unable to make giving
blood a priority. Those who are able to fit blood or platelet donation into their schedules can be
lifesavers for patients in need.

MEET DAN DYE

Not many people can say they’ve been helping save lives for a quarter of a century—
but Dan Dye can. He has been a dedicated platelet donor for the past 25 years.
It all started with a little encouragement from his father, who had been donating blood with the Red
Cross for several years. “Dad was especially proud of me when I got to my five-gallon level because he
had developed health problems and had missed that goal by only one unit,” Dan said. “I later gave him
my five-gallon pin.”

When Dan discovered platelet donation in the 1980’s, he immediately jumped on board and began
donating every three or four weeks, and he hasn’t stopped since. “Platelets only last five days, so I know
how important it is to give often,” he said.

Dan has gone above and beyond, both in the donor chair and also by donating his time. On the
weekends he can be found around town at local Red Cross blood drives, educating and encouraging
others to give platelet donation a try. He also visits blood drives at his local church to “talk platelets”
with potential donors.