As Independence Day approaches, the American Red Cross urges Nebraskans to give blood.
April Oppliger with the American Red Cross says summer also poses challenges, because many donors take vacation and young donors are out of school.
“During the summer that’s already a challenge, but then we come to the 4th of July and those summer holidays and we find fewer donors giving and fewer blood drives being hosted,” Oppliger tells Nebraska Radio Network. “And so, we’re asking people to come out and to roll up a sleeve to help prevent a summer shortage.”
Anyone donating blood or platelets between now and Monday will receive a commemorative Red Cross T-Shirt while supplies last.
All blood types are needed, but three blood types are in short supply: 0-, B-, and A-.
Oppliger has a simple message for Nebraskans.
“Give. The need is constant and you can help make a difference and give someone else hope for another summer, another memory, another 4th of July.”
AUDIO: Brent Martin reports [:45]