Donate Blood and Plasma during National Blood Donor Month

January is National Blood Donor Month and the blood community thanks those individuals who selflessly donate blood, platelets, and convalescent plasma for patients this month and throughout the year. Through the generosity of donors, health care providers are able to deliver lifesaving treatments to patients in need.  This National Blood Donor Month brings challenges unlike any other as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause disruptions in blood collections and unprecedented fluctuations in the supply and demand for blood products. Blood centers throughout the country continue to collect blood despite this difficult time for our nation and the world.  Right now, convalescent plasma from those who have recovered from COVID-19 is essential as a treatment option for those hospitalized with and currently battling COVID-19. Blood collection organizations distributed more than 100,000 units of convalescent plasma in December to healthcare providers. As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the U.S., the need for additional donors remains.  This January, the American Red Cross urges all eligible individuals to make and keep an appointment to donate blood, platelets, and convalescent plasma now to ensure critical treatment options are always available for patients when needed.