American Red Cross and American Cancer Society partner to inspire people to help patients and Give Blood to Give Time

PRINCETON, N.J. – Patients fighting cancer need more blood than patients fighting any other disease, using nearly one-quarter of the nation’s blood supply. That’s why this February, the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society have teamed up to encourage people across the country to Give Blood to Give Time, ensuring loved ones have the strength and support to battle cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 3 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. An estimated 80,240 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in Pennsylvania, 53,340 in New Jersey and 6,660 in Delaware this year. Many of these people will likely have a need for blood.

“A loved one’s cancer diagnosis often makes families and friends feel helpless. That’s why the Give Blood to Give Time partnership with the American Cancer Society is so important,” said Dr. Pampee Young, chief medical officer, American Red Cross. “When someone donates blood or platelets or makes a financial gift, they are helping to give patients and their families time, resources and the hope they need to fight back.”

To schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment or make a financial gift, visit GiveBloodToGiveTime.org.

Some types of chemotherapy can damage bone marrow, reducing red blood cell and platelet production. Other times, the cancer itself or surgical procedures cause the problem. Blood products are often needed. In fact, five units of blood are needed every minute to help someone going through cancer treatment. Yet only 3% of people in the United States give blood. More people are needed to donate regularly to help meet the need.

“The need for blood in cancer treatments is an important and untold story,” said Gary Reedy, chief executive officer of the American Cancer Society. “The American Cancer Society is excited to be working with the Red Cross on Give Blood to Give Time. Through this partnership, we want people to know there are multiple ways they can help and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families.”

Individuals can honor their loved ones by making a blood donation appointment or financial contribution at GiveBloodToGiveTime.org.

Who blood donations help
Kane Ivers-Osthus was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in May 2018 at age 24 while working as the assistant equipment manager for Temple University Football, under then-head coach Geoff Collins. He experienced severe adverse reactions to his initial treatment, causing him to suffer cardiac arrest, multiple strokes, blood hemorrhaging and a coma. During this time, he received more than 70 blood transfusions, which saved his life.

Ivers-Osthus was discharged from the hospital on Nov. 11, 2018 – just one day before Temple Football held a Red Cross blood drive in his honor. In addition to undergoing nine months of chemotherapy, Kane also underwent rigorous physical therapy to regain the ability to walk. He was declared cancer free in May 2019. Two months later, Kane rejoined Coach Collins as assistant equipment manager, this time for the Georgia Institute of Technology’s Football program, where he works today.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Central New Jersey: