Published on: Wednesday, September 08, 2010

By Fresia Rodriguez Cadavid

The football season upon us is sure to draw some blood at home in more ways than one.

The American Red Cross Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Region is teaming up with the Washington Redskins to host burgundy-and-gold-team-themed blood drives in an effort to combat seasonal blood shortages and promote frequent blood donation throughout the 2010-2011 season.

According to Katie Turner, a spokesperson with the American Red Cross Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Region, the county is experiencing shortages in A negative, B negative, O negative, A positive and B positive blood types.

“Our blood supply fluctuates daily, but we have been experiencing low levels of blood donations we typically experience in the summer season due to hot weather, people on vacation and other circumstances that keep people from donating,” said Turner.

Participants at these special event blood drives will receive, courtesy of the American Red Cross, a ticket to a Redskins home game or other special events at FedEx Field including concerts, college football and soccer games. In addition to event tickets, participants may have a chance to meet players and cheerleaders at some events.

“The American Red Cross has a longstanding relationship with the Redskins, and we’re proud to see that grow to help our community even more,” said Gary J. Ouellette, CEO for the American Red Cross’s Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Region. “With the Redskins support of our mission, we can now offer potential blood donors a special Redskins incentive and experience, which will help recruit blood donors during some of the more challenging times of year. This will help ensure that we continue to meet the needs of all local hospitals and patients.”

The first two Redskins blood drives took place Sept. 3 at Damascus and Ashburn, Va. Participants received either a Redskins vs. Cowboys or Redskins vs. Texans game ticket as a special thank you for participating in the blood drive. The next blood drive will take place at the Continental Event Center in Manassas, Va., Sept. 10 from 10a.m. to 6 p.m.

“The Redskins are committed to help the Red Cross provide a safe and adequate blood supply for our communities and raise awareness on the importance of blood donation,” said Mitch Gershman, CMO of the Washington Redskins.

The blood drives are open to all possible donors and appointments are required. The American Red Cross is encouraging group registration for families, friends and colleagues. Interested persons can call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org/redskins to register or for more information about upcoming Redskins events and announcements. All blood drive participants will receive one 2010-2011 regular season game ticket. Tickets are non-transferrable and not redeemable for cash. Tickets to exact games are not guaranteed.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of identification when you come to donate.

For more information about Redskins blood drives, to schedule an appointment, or to inquire about hosting a Redskins themed blood drive at your business, school or organization, please visit www.redcrossblood.org/redskins. For volunteer information, please call 1-800-272-0094 x1.