American Red Cross seeking more donors after blood drive cancellations

Suzanne Lawler, American Red Cross Regional Communications Manager, says the recent winter storm and the Greater Los Angeles Wildfires forced the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives across the country.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The recent winter storm and Greater Los Angeles Wildfires didn’t just impact people living in particular regions of the United States.

“The wildfires coupled with severe weather events across the country, and of course right here in Georgia, impacted us in a way that hundreds of blood drives were canceled,” said Suzanne Lawler, American Red Cross Regional Communications Manager. 

Lawler says the Red Cross isn’t scheduling additional blood drives to make up for what was lost in canceled drives Instead, the organization is banking on more donors to step up to the plate.

“It’s important to remember that blood cannot be manufactured,” Lawler said. “So, with the Red Cross supplying 40% of the nation’s blood supply, we want to maintain and make sure that that blood stays on the shelf.”

Macon resident Keith Willis has been doing his part to keep blood on the shelf for more than 40 years. He says he started donating while in the military, taking pride in having O negative blood that’s always in demand.

“They would call me every six weeks, or whatever the period was, to the day,” Willis said. “And I just got to the point where it was natural.”

Willis tracks where his blood goes after he donates. He says he was even awarded a certificate declaring him a baby saver due to the number of children he’s been able to help.

“I just noticed today one went down to Gulfport, Mississippi,” Willis said. “So, it helps all over.” 

Willis says knowing he’s made a difference feels powerful. He wants others to get involved, experience the same feeling and help fill the critical need that canceled blood drives have created.

“It doesn’t hurt,” Willis said. “You just sit back and let it happen.  I would ask anyone out there to donate, to give.”

To find blood drives across Middle Georgia, click here.