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American Red Cross: How blood donations help cancer patients

Posted at 12:49 PM, Feb 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-18 14:49:01-05

Patients fighting cancer need nearly one quarter of the nation’s blood supply—more than patients fighting any other disease. And, there simply aren’t enough people donating regularly to meet the ongoing need.

Unfortunately, 1 in 3 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Many of these people, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, may have a need for blood during treatment. To help meet this need, the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society have announced a new partnership called Give Blood to Give Time, to raise awareness about the importance of blood donations and how to help patients fight cancer. Between Feb. 10- 29, both organizations will encourage people across the country to donate blood or make a financial gift, to help give patients and their families time, resources and the hope needed to fight back.

About American Red Cross President and CEO Gail J. McGovern:
Gail J. McGovern joined the American Red Cross as president and CEO in 2008 and has taken a strong leadership role at the nation’s leading emergency response and blood services organization. Under her, the Red Cross has become more effective in fulfilling its mission and is better prepared to face current and future challenges.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org [redcross.org] or cruzrojaamericana.org [cruzrojaamericana.org], or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

About the American Cancer Society:
The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the Society is the only organization attacking cancer from every angle. For more information go to www.cancer.org [cancer.org].