Macon, Ga. (January 18, 2024) - The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years, and Piedmont Macon is encouraging people to give blood.

Anita Carrick, Piedmont Macon Medical Center’s blood bank lead technologist, said the recent bad weather has resulted in a loss of more than 10,000 lifesaving blood and platelet donations.

“Please make an appointment to donate blood and provide a vital resource needed here at Piedmont Macon and across the country,” she said.

Piedmont is encouraging all staff members, volunteers and residents to consider donating blood at an upcoming blood drive. Visit redcrossblood.org to find a blood drive in your area.

Although Middle Georgia hospitals have been sharing blood resources to ensure patient safety, timing is of the essence. The American Red Cross, which is the primary blood supplier for Piedmont Macon Medical Center and Piedmont Macon North Hospital, needs your help now to address this emergency blood shortage and save the lives we could lose if the supply runs out entirely.

No blood type will be turned away; however, platelet donors and Type O blood donors, especially, are encouraged to donate.

Every donation puts us one step closer to overcoming this emergency blood shortage and saving the lives of our patients.