Make the most of your blood donation Jan. 21

To the Editor:
Donating specific components of your blood is often the best way to help the greatest number of hospital patients.
Blood components are the following:
•Red cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body.
•Platelets are essential for blood clotting.
•Plasma is the liquid portion of the blood containing critical clotting factors.
Types of donations include whole blood donation, power red donation, platelet (and plasma) donations.
Give where you are needed most.
If you have type AB blood, consider making a plasma donation together with platelets. Only four percent of the U.S. population has this blood type.
If your blood type is A or B negative, consider making a power red or whole blood donation.
For A or B positive blood type, consider making a platelet donation or a whole blood donation.
If you are O positive, consider making a power red or whole blood donation, or be evaluated for a platelet donation.
For donors with O negative blood, consider making a power red or whole blood donation. Anyone in need can receive your red cells. This component is universal. Only seven percent of the U.S. population has this type.
The American Red Cross encourages donors of all blood types to donate. Blood of every type is always in demand for patients in need of blood transfusions.
Please come and donate to help save lives on Monday, Jan. 21, from 1 to 7 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church.
Delores Mulligan
Luverne