Tag Archives: Type O

Grateful mother encourages others to donate blood after experiencing hemorrhage during birth

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

“In some situations, it takes a village of people to save one person’s life.”  – Dr. Kristin Gype 

Last August, 38 weeks pregnant with her second child, Dr. Kristin Gype went in to see her doctor for a routine checkup and ultrasound. Everything had been going smoothly with this pregnancy, but at this appointment, the staff noticed that her amniotic fluid appeared cloudy on the scan. As a precaution, her doctor recommended that she deliver within 24 hours.  

Dr. Kristin Gype and her daughter,

Feeling a bit unnerved at this unexpected turn of events, she called her husband, reluctantly gathered her belongings, and dropped her daughter off at her mother-in-law’s house.  As she hugged her daughter goodbye, Kristin had a powerful urge to squeeze her extra tight and hold on a little longer. 

A few years earlier, she had undergone a C-section with the birth of her daughter and was determined this time to try a natural birth. At the hospital, labor was induced and she received an epidural as she waited for her son to be born. Sometime overnight, they broke her water, and it was perfectly normal. She felt a wave of relief, but also a hint of frustration.

Later that morning, she noticed that her son’s fetal monitor was showing his heart rate dipping periodically into the 30s. A normal fetal heart rate is around 110 to 160 beats per minute. She was also feeling pain in her lower right abdomen. Despite the anesthesiologist administering more medicine, the pain persisted. 

Due to the low heart rate, it was determined that a C-section was necessary, and she went in for emergency surgery. Her son was born in under 90 seconds and was perfect and healthy, but she quickly realized something else was seriously wrong.   

Having attended many C-sections during her career as a nurse anesthetist, Kristin understood the subtle cues the medical staff were giving. She soon realized that she had uncontrolled bleeding and they were trying desperately to stop it.   

“I felt this impending doom,” she recalled. “I felt like I was dying…it truly felt cold and dark, and gloomy, and there was no control.” 

She began losing her ability to communicate coherently with her husband and staff.  At one point they informed her that a total hysterectomy was necessary to try to stop the bleed and she readily agreed. The next thing she knew she woke up in recovery in the ICU.   

After speaking to her doctor the next day, she learned that she had required a total of 52 units of blood during her surgery. To put that number into perspective, the average human body holds around 10 units or pints of blood. In addition, she estimates that up to 83 blood donors were required to produce all of the blood products she needed that day. 

Luckily, she suffered no long-term consequences from this traumatic incident. Today she has a new life perspective, realizing that she was literally saved from the brink by the generous blood donors who contribute to the crucial blood supply in our community.  

To give back, she has been donating her extra breast milk to the Ohio Milk Bank. “I went on to donate 3,500 oz of breast milk,” she proudly explained. “The milk bank providers said 1 ounce of breastmilk can give three meals to a newborn ICU patient.” 

Regarding her blood donors, she reflected, “Those people had a ripple effect. They kept me alive, kept these two babies’ mommy alive. I get to go to work and take care of people and keep them alive, and my breastmilk goes to critically ill babies.”   

“It seems so simple because putting a needle in your arm and donating a pack of units is so minor compared to the downstream effects of all those things. You give somebody another Christmas, give somebody another chance at life.” 

The American Red Cross is in critical need of blood donors. Just one hour of your time could save the life of a new mother or other critically ill patient. To donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or download the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App by clicking HERE.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Celebrate tattoos and schedule a blood donation this National Tattoo Day! 

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By Tim Poe, American Red Cross volunteer

July 17 is National Tattoo Day, a day to “recognize the history, culture, and artists dedicated to etching ink permanently on the skin.” We also think it’s a fantastic time to schedule a blood donation as, despite some myths, having tattoos does not prevent you from donating blood.  

Ryan and Megan Lang, tattooed blood donors

Even if you do not have a tattoo, you’ve likely pondered possibilities. I am. Should I get an American Red Cross logo to commemorate my 7.5 years as a volunteer? Possibly. Or a fountain pin nib, for my love of writing? Granted, I mainly write on a laptop, but we need some artistic license. The pen could also be writing something, like a schwa! Yeah! Or a treble and bass clef, even a grand staff, to celebrate my love of music? That could mask some scars, too! Groovetastic! How about mascots of universities I attended? You have to admit, an Eagle-Penguin-Viking combo could be epic! Logos of previous employers? No, definitely not, especially the one with the common word ending. I’ve got it! All of them, being juggled by a jester! 

Now to bust a myth. Even if I went out and got these tattoos today, I could immediately donate blood if the tattoos were done at a state-regulated, licensed facility in Ohio or most other states. If done in one of the few states that do not regulate tattoo facilities, or by an unlicensed person, I’d only need to wait three months to ensure blood safety. (All blood donations are tested for hepatitis B and hepatitis C, but it is still important for people who may be infected with hepatitis viruses to not donate blood.) More about blood donor eligibility is available here. 

Also, the Red Cross is currently in need of blood donations and is offering additional ways to say thanks this summer. Those donating from July 15-31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket. Those donating in August can receive a free A1C test and, from August 1-28, a $15 gift card. 

Whether you have tattoos or not, enjoy celebrating them today, and consider scheduling a blood donation at RedCrossBlood.org or download the free blood donor app. After all, if you’re tattooed you don’t have a problem with needles. And a fun observation: many of the phlebotomists I’ve met have tattoos. Finally, please also read Christy Peters’ excellent post about her grandfather’s tattoos. 

Get a free pair of shades by goodr when you donate blood or platelets

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross Volunteer 

July is finally here, and summer has officially started. For many, this means vacations, cookouts, pool time, and fun with family and friends. For blood banks, this busy season can mean a time of fewer donors and a limited blood supply.   

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. requires a blood transfusion. This equates to around 29,000 units of blood that are needed every day! Whether it be for cancer patients, accident victims, surgical patients, or new mothers, be a hero for a person in need by donating this precious, lifesaving gift. 

While all potential donors are asked to donate if they can, Type O is urgently needed at this time.   

Type O negative blood, often called the “universal donor,” can be safely transfused to anyone and is commonly used in emergencies when there is no time to determine blood type. With only around 7% of the U.S. population having Type O negative blood, it is often in short supply, even though the need for it is great. 

Special Promotion for donors 

Between July 1-14, consider taking time out of your schedule to donate blood, plasma or platelets, and look cool leaving with a free pair of American Red Cross x goodr “Just My Type” sunglasses, while supplies last! You will also receive a sticker with your blood type to personalize your glasses. Find out more about the promotion by clicking HERE. 

To donate, simply visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter your zip code or download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App by clicking HERE. Save time on the date of your donation by completing your pre-donation forms at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or by using the Blood Donor App. 

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Surgeries don’t stop for the holidays and neither does the need for blood

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By Christy Peters, American Red Cross Regional Communications Manager

I haven’t spent much time in casinos, but I’ve heard many of them have no clocks or windows visible, on purpose. With no concept of hours passing, much less whether it’s day or night, it’s much easier to part with one’s money. I recently discovered another, much less fun place where time flies by but also stands completely still – a hospital waiting room.

Christy Peters, with her father Dave

A week ago, my father underwent open heart surgery to replace his mitral valve. My father is
very healthy and has never had major health issues, so it was difficult to wrap my head around him having such a major surgery. As we waited with him before he was taken to the operating room, he mentioned that he was asked by the nurse if he would take a blood transfusion, should the need arise during his surgery. He found it ironic, since his daughter works for the American Red Cross. All I could think of was the number of times I’d told someone “You never know when someone you love may need a blood transfusion.”

The winter months are always a difficult time for the Red Cross to collect blood. That difficulty increases when you consider the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is predicting a serious spread of flu, already reporting an early spike in cases in several states. When seasonal illnesses increase, the number of healthy donors tends to decrease, leaving the Red Cross blood supply vulnerable to a potential shortage over the holidays. Donors − especially those with type O blood and those giving platelets − can help bolster the blood supply now by making an appointment to give in the coming weeks.

Dave, the author’s father, with Reid, one of his eight grandchildren

Thankfully, my father’s surgery was a complete success, and he didn’t need a transfusion. I know that is not always the case. My dad was one of hundreds of patients going into surgery that day, many probably facing a procedure more complicated than his. And I was one of hundreds of daughters, sons, wives and husbands hoping that, if the need arose, blood would be available for the person I love. Available because a stranger I didn’t know took an hour out of their day to give blood. So, to all of you who give and will give, thank you. You each make the long wait in a hospital a little easier for families like mine.

Down, but not out – Blood supplies are still vulnerable

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By Doug Bardwell, Red Cross Volunteer

Last month the blood supply was in “crisis.” This month it’s rated “vulnerable.” Neither of those are optimal – the latter being only incrementally better. Bottom line = we still need everyone to donate if they are able.

Photo Credit: Doug Bardwell, Red Cross Volunteer

With relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, doctors are once again allowing elective surgery. Don’t associate “elective” with just things as tummy tucks and facelifts.

Elective means it can be scheduled in advance instead of being scheduled as an emergency. Some heart surgeries, including bypass and valve surgeries, as well as some cancer surgeries or biopsies are scheduled electively. When elective surgeries are delayed for too long, life-threatening emergencies can occur.

Since issuing its first-ever blood crisis alert, severe winter weather has further complicated efforts to rebuild the Red Cross blood supply. So far in 2022, approximately 600 blood drives have been canceled across the country due to winter storms, forcing nearly 20,000 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected.

Photo Credit: Doug Bardwell, Red Cross Volunteer

Don’t let the supply go back to “crisis” mode – make and keep those appointments. It’s quick and easy to find a location and time near you at redcrossblood.org.

If you have either type O positive or O negative – you are needed most urgently:
o Type O positive is the most transfused blood type and can be transfused to Rh-positive patients of any blood type.
o Type O negative is the universal blood type and what emergency room personnel reach for when there is no time to determine the blood type of patients in the most serious situations.

Platelet donations are also urgently needed. Platelets are the clotting portion of blood, which must be transfused within five days of donation. Nearly half of all platelet donations are given to patients undergoing cancer treatments.

Need more motivation???

For drives March 1-31: All who come to give blood or platelets will get a $10 e-gift card, thanks to Fanatics, world’s largest collection of officially licensed sports gear.

Plus, donors will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the 2022 MLB® All-Star Game® in Los Angeles, California, when you come to give March 1-31. The package includes two tickets to 2022 MLB® All-Star Saturday, the 2022 Home Run Derby and the 2022 MLB® All-Star Game®, round-trip airfare to Los Angeles, four-night hotel accommodations (July 16-20, 2022), plus a $750 gift card for expenses. Details available at rcblood.org/team.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Blood donations needed as cancer patients resume care after challenging year

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American Red Cross and American Cancer Society partner to help patients and encourage donors to Give Blood to Give Time

CLEVELAND, June 7, 2021 – The American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society have teamed up this June to encourage people across the country to Give Blood to Give Time and help ensure loved ones have the strength and support they need as they undergo cancer treatment.

According to the American Cancer Society, many patient visits and procedures were forced to delay or cancel early in the pandemic to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. With procedures resuming, blood donations are critical for cancer treatments. Unfortunately, the Red Cross is seeing fewer blood and platelet donors give as the nation begins to climb out of this pandemic. This downturn comes at a time when the Red Cross continues to see strong demand for blood products − including platelets − by hospitals, causing concern for the sufficiency of the blood supply this month and throughout the summer.

The Red Cross currently has an emergency need for eligible donors in Northern Ohio to make an appointment now to give platelets to ensure critical patient needs are met. Platelets, the clotting portion of blood primarily given to cancer patients during treatment, must be transfused within five days of donation and, therefore, are always in great demand.

“Many cancer patients, especially those going through chemotherapy, will have a need for blood products during treatment,” said Dr. Baia Lasky, medical director for the Red Cross. “When someone donates blood or platelets, they may not only help prevent life-threatening bleeding that can cause stroke or relieve some symptoms, like shortness of breath and headaches, but also give patients and their families the time and hope they need to fight back.”

Some types of chemotherapy can damage bone marrow, reducing red blood cell and platelet production. Other times, the cancer itself or surgical procedures cause the need for blood products. About six blood products are needed every minute to help someone going through cancer treatment. Yet only 3% of people in the U.S. give blood. It is vital that more people donate blood and platelets regularly to meet that need.

To schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment, visit GiveBloodToGiveTime.org. As a special thank-you, those who come to donate through June 13 will receive a limited-edition Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

“The need for blood in cancer treatments is an important and untold story,” said Howard Byck, senior vice president of corporate and sports alliances, American Cancer Society. “The American Cancer Society is excited to be working with the Red Cross on Give Blood to Give Time. Through this partnership, we want people to know there are multiple ways they can help and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families.”

The Red Cross not only has an emergency need for platelets, but also for type O blood donors, as hospital demand for these blood products continues to outpace donations.Type O blood is the most needed blood group by hospitals. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type and can be transfused to Rh-positive patients of any blood type. 

Type O negative is the universal blood type and what emergency room personnel reach for when there is no time to determine the blood type of patients in the most serious situations. Visit redcrossblood.org to find the blood drive that fits your schedule.

Help now: Type O blood shortage

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By Christy Peters, External Communications Manager, Northern Ohio Blood Region

Spring is a busy time of year for many people, but the need for blood and platelets doesn’t let up. Last month, more than 11,500 fewer donations were collected than needed as spring break schedules and end of the school year activities contributed to a low turnout of blood donors. As a result, the American Red Cross has a critical shortage of type O blood and urges type O donors to give now to ensure blood is available for patients in need of lifesaving treatments or facing traumas.

Type O_Critical need

Right now, the Red Cross has less than a two-day supply of type O blood available for emergency rooms – where it can be most critical. Type O donations are being distributed to hospitals faster than they are coming in. Type O blood is the most needed blood group by hospitals but is often in short supply. Here in the Northern Ohio Blood Services Region, approximately 500 pints of blood are needed every day to help meet patient needs. The Region serves more than 50 hospitals who depend on the Red Cross for a strong, local blood supply.

Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee 2019

All eligible donors – especially type O donors – are urged to roll up a sleeve as soon as possible. In thanks for helping meet patient needs, those who come to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross May 1-June 10 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email. (Restrictions apply, see amazon.com/gc-legal. Additional information and details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Together.)

Don’t wait – help now!

  1. Make an appointment to give blood or platelets by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors can also give throughout northeast Ohio at the Red Cross donation centers in Parma, Akron and Cleveland.
  2. Let your friends and family know there is a type O #BloodShortage and ask them to give now.
  3. Bring someone to donate with you.

Blood Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 2018

Every day, volunteer blood and platelet donors across the country are needed to help save lives. Your support can help ensure that blood products are there for accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease.

Make an appointment to give now.