No matter the weather, blood still in demand

Kids got a day off from school today, and many events have been called off.

We're grateful for a warm place to work or at least hole up while the expected blizzard rages outside, and even more grateful for those willing to brave the weather to keep us safe and allow us to do what we have to do.

Some things just keep happening, regardless of the weather, and one of them is that people have accidents or other medical emergencies that require a supply of fresh, safe blood.

Storms like the one expected here and the ones that struck elsewhere in the nation have made themselves felt in the supply of blood that isn't coming from donors who can't make it to blood collection sites.

The American Red Cross is one of those institutions that keeps operating, whether it's a snowstorm or a sunny day.

Chris Salinas is glad they do; he's a horse trainer who was seriously injured in an accident when a horse pinned him to the pavement.

He and his family said they credit the multiple blood transfusions he received with helping him to recovery.

And there are thousands of patients who can echo that sentiment.

We'd like you to give serious consideration to donating blood as soon as possible.

That's especially true if you're Type 0 negative, which can potentially be trasfused to patients with any type.

Upcoming blood collection events:

Furnas County

Feb. 20, 12-6 p.m. at Spirit of the Rock Church, 331 Ogden St. in Oxford, Nebraska.

Hayes County

Feb. 28, 12-6 p.m. at Hayes Center Elementary School, 300 Daniels St. in Hayes Center.

Hitchcock County

Feb. 27, 12-6 p.m. at Mihm Hall, 103 N. Vennum in Palisade.

Red Willow County

Feb. 25, 12:30-6:30 p.m. at McCook Fair Building, West Fifth and O Street in McCook.

Feb. 26, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at McCook Fair Building, West Fifth and O Street in McCook.

Feb. 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at MCC Event Center, 401 E. M St. in McCook.

Walk-ins are welcome, or simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.