Unpredictable weather in February means blood drive cancellations and travel woes can keep people from donating blood as they had planned. Now, the Red Cross is pleading with the public to find time to donate. 

"The need for blood is constant. Every two seconds somebody in the U.S. needs blood," said Brian Williamsen, communication manager for the American Red Cross of Illinois. "We've actually had throughout the country probably thousands of appointments canceled this winter because of severe weather."

As those cancellations continue to affect blood supply, the Red Cross and local hospitals are urging donors to make and keep appointments to help prevent a shortage from arising.  Donors of all blood types, along with platelet donors, are needed daily to meet the demand of hospitals and patients. However, they are especially in need of Type O blood donors, as that is the most common blood type used for transfusions.

94.1 WGFA