Give Thanks by Donating Blood or Platelets OTSEGO COUNTY – As many reflect on the upcoming holiday celebrations with family and friends, the American Red Cross urges donors to shake up their holiday traditions and plan a time to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks.Blood and platelet donations tend to drop more than 20 percent during holiday weeks. Seasonal illness and the threat of winter weather can add more concern during a time of year that is traditionally…