SANDRA IRION

Trout Run

I would like to commend the American Red Cross for continuing to provide medical care and safe shelter throughout the continuing disasters this year. According to their website, 90 percent of the agency’s workforce are volunteers. I am grateful for their blood donation program. Approximately 2.8 million people donate blood – the gift of life — making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the U.S. Friends and family members have been a recipient .

I realize there are other donation programs available, but I want to emphasize that the Red Cross checks first in this area with all UPMC- and Geisinger- affiliated hospitals to make sure any needed blood products are given first priority in this area. The blood donor will be notified where the blood donation has been sent.

You can continue to make a difference by making an appointment to donate blood with the Red Cross or check the agency’s website at www.redcross.org to find other available volunteer services.