Blood donors honor Capital Gazette journalist as shortage widens

Donors gave blood Saturday in honor of Wendi Winters, and the American Red Cross said the drive comes amid a nationwide blood shortage.

Donors gathered Saturday to give blood in honor of Wendi Winters, one of five people killed in the 2018 Capital Gazette attack. Family and friends have held this blood drive 17 times to remember her and help others. Since the drive began, the Red Cross says nearly 3,000 units have been donated in her name. The American Red Cross described the event as especially important because of a widespread blood shortage this season. Key facts: - Saturday marked the 17th Wendi Winters Blood Drive held by family and friends. - The Red Cross reports nearly 3,000 units of blood have been donated in Winters's honor since the drive began. - The Red Cross said the blood supply dropped about 35% this season, citing severe winter weather and a very strong flu season. - Scott Marder, a Red Cross spokesman, noted Winters was a volunteer and community leader and said her actions on the day of the 2018 attack helped colleagues. Summary: The Wendi Winters Blood Drive has provided a steady memorial and source of donations, totaling nearly 3,000 units across 17 events. The Red Cross reports a roughly 35% seasonal drop in supply and the broader response to that shortage is undetermined at this time.