Red Cross asking for blood due to hurricane disruptions

Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - As a second hurricane begins to make it's way toward Florida in the Gulf of Mexico, Red Cross officials are asking for blood donations to help mitigate the supply shortage.

Michael Tedesco, Regional Director of Communications for the American Red Cross of WNY, says that the shortage hasn't impacted the regional supply of blook, but he's urging people to donate, because they're sending whatever they can to areas that were forced to close down blood banks.

"One donation can actually impact up to three different lives. Cancer patients, for instance, are in great need of platelets. When trauma patients arrive in the ED, they're in need of whole blood, red blood cells, or plasma," Tedesco said in an interview with WBEN. "We would encourage people to consider donating, and they can find a Drive near them just easily by going to www.redcrossblood.org , and you'll be able to type in your area."

Throughout the month of October, anyone who donates blood will receive a $10 Amazon gift card, and will also be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards.

"We hope people will take advantage. But most of all, we hope people will recognize that there's a need. And the Western New York community has always been a very compassionate, generous community, and we know they'll answer the call," Tedesco stated.