Press Release sample

For Release June 12

RED CROSS TEAMS WITH RIVAL TO BATTLE SUPPLY CRISIS

The local Red Cross and the local chapter of the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) are mobilizing to compensate for the loss of regular donors, college students, during the summer vacation. A slack in donations is happening at a time when hospital emergency units require more blood as auto accidents are on the rise.The leaders of the blood banking community are calling upon all eligible town residents to participate in blood drives scheduled throughout the summer. “ Treating a single trauma victim can require up to 50 units of blood,” said Jean Hopkins, director of services for the town’s Red Cross.

“People have to realize that blood units are needed for more than crash victims. For example, a week ago I treated a patient who needed blood while waiting for a liver transplant. That woman could be your friend, your wife, or your daughter. Blood shortage affects everyone, and we all have to pitch in, “said Dr. Bob Williams, director of emergency at Suffern Memorial Hospital and mobile director for AABB.

Through its National Blood Exchange (NBE) program, the AABB will arrange for participating out of town hospitals to move surplus blood to some of the town hospitals. Nevertheless, donations will still be required. “Blood has a shelf life of only 42 days, which means it constantly needs to be replenished,” said Dan Taylor, professor of biology at Suffern College.

The message is getting out thanks to D.J. Cool and all the staff at Rock 105. In fact, Mr. Cool will be at Suffern Plaza on June 18 to start the “Gift of love slam” kickoff. Local restaurants will provide plenty of food, and Miss Sally’s Kid Camp will provide counselors and games to keep the kids busy. Finally, transportation will be available for the elderly and disabled. “Everyone will have a chance to help,” said Dan Petersen, owner of Dan’s Vans.

Those interested in donating blood may call one of the following numbers:

American Association of Blood Banks—Suffern chapter. 1-800-357-2000

Red Cross—Suffern chapter. 1-800-357-3000

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