05/22/2019- The American Red Cross is facing a critical shortage of the blood group most needed by hospitals. With less than a two-day supply of type O blood available for emergency rooms, representatives with the Red Cross say medical treatments and patient care can be directly impacted. Spring break schedules are known to decrease blood donations, and schools begin to host fewer blood drives in late spring as school years end. Because these drives account for about 20% of blood donations during the school year, fewer drives can greatly affect the blood supply. That’s why they’re asking eligible donors, especially those with type O blood, to make an appointment to donate. A list of upcoming local blood drives can be found at redcrossblood.org.