Blood Donors Needed; The American Red Cross asks for more people to donate blood.

Business Editors

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 11, 2000

With the unusual spring heat wave, the American Red Cross is already seeing the decrease in blood donations typically experienced in the summer.

There is a special need for type-O donors, universal blood donors.

"We are asking our donors to help us get back on track before the summer holiday season begins," said Brigid O'Neill-LaGier, Chief Operating Officer, Penn-Jersey Region, American Red Cross. "Healthy, volunteer blood donors are urged to give at their community or workplace blood drive."

Nearly 1200 donations are needed each weekday. The blood supply is fragile. Even a small dip in donations at this early time is a concern. To find a blood drive near you, call the Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE LIFE, or visit the Red Cross on the web at www.pleasegiveblood.org.

Most healthy people who are at least seventeen years-of-age, and who weigh 110 pounds or more, are eligible to give blood. Federal regulations require donors to wait 56 days between donations. Please bring some form of ID. In New Jersey, seventeen-year-olds must bring a Red Cross, parental consent form signed by their parent or legal guardian with them to the donor center or bloodmobile.

The American Red Cross provides donated blood, and medical and technical support around the clock, every day of the week to nearly 100 hospitals in southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey, thanks to the generosity of caring volunteer donors.