The American Red Cross is asking people to donate blood or platelets and contribute in prevention of a predicted summer shortage. A recent survey of Red Cross blood and platelet donors show that over 40% prepare to travel the week before or after Independence Day and this means that many may not be available to give blood.

According to Kay E. Schwartz, CEO of the Red Cross New York-Penn Blood Services Region, adding blood donation or platelet vacation in to-do list can help patients a lot.

In addition to that smaller number of blood drives has been scheduled the week before and after the big day, for the reason that many hosting organizations put off blood drives when people are go on holiday.

According to reports, blood donors with all types, particularly O negative, A negative and B negative, and platelet donors are asked to schedule an appointment.

Suburban Propane is the official sponsor of the Red Cross "100 days of summer; 100 days of hope" campaign, which is supporting a promotion public awareness initiative regarding the constant need for blood and platelet donations.

According to Suburban Propane Chief Operating Officer Mark Wienberg, "Suburban Propane is committed to giving back to our communities, and we can't think of a better way than by helping the Red Cross increase blood and platelet donations for patients in need this time of year". Wienberg added that they are asking individuals across the country to come forward for joining the Suburban Propane family in preparing to help save lives.