The American Red Cross typically has a tough time keeping the blood supply strong during the winter months when inclement weather and seasonal illnesses can impact donors. This year the pandemic adds in another challenge in keeping the blood supply strong. The Red Cross is urging healthy individuals to make an appointment to give blood or platelets this month.

Every day there are thousands of patients who rely on lifesaving blood donations – people like Leslie Johnson. In 2005, a farming accident left Johnson with broken bones and massive bleeding. In the first 24 hours after the accident, she received 10 units of blood and platelets. Additional transfusions and surgeries followed.

Johnson’s high school-age daughter, Emily, hosted a blood drive last semester because she recognizes the role of blood in helping save her mom’s life. “If blood had not been available when she needed it, she might not be here today. I might not have had my mom growing up. It’s my honor to be able to promote blood donation and help pay it forward to others in need.”

As Leslie Johnson faces additional surgeries to address ongoing injuries from the accident, she may need more blood transfusions.

“It’s so important, especially as we navigate this pandemic, to make sure there is blood available,” said Emily. “Blood is such a meaningful gift to give.”

You can give the Gift of Life at several upcoming blood drives in Rutherford County (See Below). 

A glimpse at some of the blood drives in Rutherford County: 

TUESDAY, Jan. 28th

Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center
501 Memorial Blvd. Murfreesboro, TN 37129
11:30 AM - 07:30 PM
5 Appointments Remaining!      

St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital
1700 Medical Parkway Murfreesboro, TN 37128
10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
10 Appointments Remaining!    

THURSDAY, Jan. 28th:

Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center
501 Memorial Blvd. Murfreesboro, TN 37129
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
9 Appointments Remaining!   

FRIDAY, Jan. 29th:

Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center
501 Memorial Blvd. Murfreesboro, TN 37129
07:00 AM - 03:00 PM 

THURSDAY - FEB. 4th:

First United Methodist Church
300 Sam Hagar Street Smyrna, TN 37167
12:00 PM - 05:00 PM
5 Appointments Remaining!

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance.

More upcoming blood donation opportunities Feb. 1-15 click on RedCrossBlood.org/FindADrive.