The American Red Cross is encouraging anyone with Type O blood to make a donation.

May is Trauma Awareness Month and when it comes to trauma cases, patients rely on type O blood. Since this blood type is the universal donor, it can be used in emergency situations and blood transfusions. It is vital to saving lives.

Currently the American Red Cross is experiencing a shortage of type O blood.

According to a release on the Red Cross website, "there are just six units of type O blood available for every 100,000 people, but at least two times that amount is needed every day." We are being asked to donate blood or platelets as soon as possible, especially if you have type O blood. A donation can save a life and right now, your donation can save the life of someone in the coming days and weeks.

For anyone that donates right now, the Red Cross will give them a $5 Amazon gift card via email.

To donate, you can make an appointment a RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. Donors can also use the Blood Donor App. Donations only take 8-10 minutes to complete.

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