Editor:

This winter’s unusually severe weather has had an effect on everyone in northern New England. Thankfully spring has finally arrived and we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief – almost.

One “behind the scenes” result of the back to back winter storms this year is a cumulative 1,600 pint shortfall in expected blood donations. These precious, lifesaving units of blood must be recouped in order to fulfill the expected blood needs of our local hospitals.

Every day, no matter what the weather, there are patients relying on the medicine only volunteer blood donors can provide. Blood is used for a wide variety of life-threatening conditions, including people undergoing cancer treatment, trauma victims, surgical patients, premature babies and many others.

This period of time, between the weather-related challenges of winter and the special challenges of the summer season, is a golden opportunity to shore up blood supplies for patients and recover this loss.

Most people can give blood through the Red Cross. Donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health on the day of donation. For information about specific donor eligibility questions, or to find a blood drive near you, please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit online at newenglandblood.org.

Susan Parmer, R.N.

Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross Blood Services Northern  New England Region