Blood donation is important during the winter months. (WJBC file photo)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – 2015 will be here soon and the American Red Cross is asking eligible blood donors to make a resolution to give blood regularly in the next year.

Spokesman Ben Corey said the winter months is an especially difficult time for blood donations.

"That comes as a result of bad weather and seasonal illnesses," said Corey. "It's really important that people resolve to give back to the community in the new year and one of the best ways to do that is by giving blood."

January is National Blood Donor Month. Corey explained why blood donation is important to keep in mind the entire year.

"Red blood cells have a shelf life of 42 days and platelets just have a shelf life of five days," said Corey. "The need for blood is constant and the need for blood must be constantly replenished throughout the year."

While all blood types are needed, certain types in of particular need.

"Types O-negative, A-negative and B-negative," said Corey. "O-negative is especially important because it's the universal blood type, so it can potentially be transfused to any patient regardless of their blood type."

Several blood drives are being held during January in Bloomington:
Jan. 3: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., American Red Cross, 1 Westport Ct.
Jan. 3: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., Covell Dale Township Building, 8017 E 1100 North Rd.
Jan. 5: 2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1 Westport Ct.
Jan. 10: 7 a.m. – 11 a.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, 801 S. Madison
Jan. 10: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., American Red Cross, 1 Westport Ct.
Jan. 12: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 1706 RT Dunn Dr.
Jan. 12: 2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1 Westport Ct.
Jan. 13: 7 a.m. – 11 a.m., Eastland Suites Hotel & Conference Center, 1801 Eastland Dr.

Donors can register by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or visiting redcrossblood.org.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].