POTSDAM -- Canton-Potsdam Hospital will hold an American Red Cross blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 13 in Conference Rooms A & B on the second floor of the hospital.

All blood types are needed; however, there is a special need for type 0 Negative, which is considered universal and can be given to a patient of any blood type in an emergency.

The American Red Cross receives more than 28,000 units of blood on a monthly basis and provides donated blood products to more than 100 hospitals within our region. Blood products are used by patients for many different reasons. Emergency situations, surgeries, and blood transfusions for cancer patients are just a few examples.

Have you ever been the recipient of donated blood? Had a loved one survive an accident after significant blood loss? Held the hand of a cancer patient during his/her blood transfusion? You can thank a blood donor, whose single donation could help up to three individuals. What does a donor look like? Could you point a blood donor out in a crowd? A blood donor comes in all shapes and sizes and is someone who wants to make a difference by giving a total stranger the gift of perhaps another day.

To be eligible, donors must be at least 17 years of age and must weigh at least 110 pounds. Donors may wish to ask about becoming a DRC (Double Red Count) donor, as it can benefit even more recipients. If you would like more information on eligibility please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE. All new blood donors will receive a free meal card to use at Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s cafeteria on the day of the blood drive. Refreshments will be available on site.

Advance appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome. Contact Lyndsay Macagg, Volunteer & Events Coordinator at 261-5413 or events@cphospital.org.