There is a constant need for blood donors and March is a month the Red Cross counts on to get that message out and bring in new donors. It's RedCross Month and they were kicking it off with a blood drive in Plymouth Sunday.
"I've had cancer run in the family so people have been in the hospital and needed it," said Leah Ruff. She was donating blood for the first time Sunday because of her family experience. "I've always wanted to donate I've just never weighed enough," said Ruff.
The Red Cross is looking for people just like her, first time donors. "Even if new donors would take the time once a year to donate it would change the tightness of the blood supply," said Patricia Cochran a Red Cross Donor Recruitment Representative.
Cochran said only about 5% of people who are eligible to donate blood actually do. That's why this month, Red Cross Month, is so important to the organization. "It helps us have a designated time to really reach out and make that extra effort to talk to people about the importance of donating. Maybe people will come and donate for the first time because of that raised awareness," said Cochran. Because there is always a need for blood. "There's always patients in the hospital waiting for blood," said Cochran.
That's exactly why Leah is happy she can finally donate. "Glad that it's helping somebody. That I can help make somebody feel better."
The Red Cross says one blood donor saves the lives of three people.
For more information on future blood drives visit The Red Cross website, click on "Find your local Red Cross," and enter your zip code.
