Without help, Red Cross predicts less than happy holiday for those in need of blood

From Staff Reports

   If recent trends continue, the American Red Cross predicts the blood supply will be at critical levels during the holiday season, from Thanksgiving through the new year. Currently, 25 percent of donors scheduled have failed to give blood.
   The demand for blood follows the usual holiday demand. Red Cross officials said they may have less than a two-day supply of all types and less than a day's supply of types O and B by Dec. 25.
   Officials are encouraging those hosting blood drives to encourage donors to make and keep appointments and to encourage others they know to donate.
   The Johnson City Blood Center will be holding a blood drive today from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m, and Milligan College will host a drive from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
   The American Red Cross will also hold a blood drive with ETSU at the Pedestrian Walk-Way Wednesday, Dec. 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
   Patients in the Tri-Cities area use more than 1,500 units of blood each day.