Cherry Hill High School East’s fall blood drive collected 224 units of blood, Eastside first reported Nov. 5. Organizers used a football theme to promote the drive.
How donations support patients
U.S. patients need approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells each day, according to the American Red Cross. The organization says blood and platelets cannot be manufactured.
Donated blood supports care for people undergoing surgery, cancer treatment and treatment for traumatic injuries. Different patients may need whole blood, red cells, platelets or plasma.
The Red Cross says red blood cells must be used within 42 days or less. Platelets must be used within five days.
What happens after collection
Donated blood products are tested before being stored or shipped for patient use, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The institute estimates that only 3% of age-eligible Americans donate each year.
NHLBI says patients needing transfusions include people with trauma injuries and conditions such as sickle cell disease. Its donation resource page links to eligibility information and ways to find a blood donation center.
