Gov. Schwarzenegger Urges Californians to Give Blood

January 3, 2005

January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month

January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month and with California requiring more than 1.5 million donated pints of blood a year, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has issued a call to citizens to give blood.

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP), which provides blood to 41 hospitals throughout Northern California, has started the new year with a deficit of much-needed blood for area patients. Running particularly low are supplies of blood with negative Rh factors, like type O negative, which can be given to anyone in an emergency.

“The demand for blood is greater today than ever before, and California’s blood supply needs constant replenishment. Accident victims, people undergoing surgery and patients receiving treatment for cancer or other diseases all utilize blood…” Schwarzenegger wrote.

The governor continued, “during Volunteer Blood Donor Month, I urge all citizens to pay tribute to those among us who donate blood for others in need, and I encourage all citizens in good health to donate blood and give life.”

In the Bay Area, it is estimated that 800 pints of blood are needed each day for local patients. But of those eligible to donate blood, less than 4% do.

“We encourage those who haven’t donated blood before to start this January and we hope those who have given in the past will make blood donation a regular gift to their community,” commented Dr. Nora Hirschler, President of BCP.

To make an appointment to donate blood or to find the donation location closest to you, call 888-393-GIVE (4483) or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612