Blood supply emergency continues

LifeSouth Community Blood Centers faces emergency need for all blood types, and encourages the community to donate blood.

Summer is historically a slow time for blood donations due to travel and school breaks, and this summer continues to be a challenge not only to LifeSouth, but to blood centers across the country. When tragedy strikes, like the catastrophic floods in Louisiana, neighboring blood centers are asked to help supply hospitals in areas affected. This is difficult when blood supplies are low.

“Donations have decreased exceptionally this summer, and patients at our hospitals are depending on donors to give blood,” said LifeSouth vice president of operations J.B. Bowles.

LifeSouth encourages donors to come in to one of their donor centers or find a blood drive location at www.lifesouth.org. First time donors are always welcome and encouraged to give blood donation a try. All donors are important to help meet the needs of the local blood supply.

LifeSouth only uses the word “emergency” when the reserve supply to restock area hospitals drops below a two-day level. All blood types are needed, but the shortage is most acute for negative blood types, especially O-negative, which is the universal donor and can be used by all patients in an emergency. Platelet donations are also critically needed.

“When we fall behind, catching up is a challenge. We need the help of our donors and new donors today to overcome this,” Bowles said.

Donors must be at least 17 or 16 with parental permission, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health. A photo ID is also needed. LifeSouth’s donor center in McDonough is located at 329 Westridge Parkway. LifeSouth’s bloodmobiles will also be out at many locations in coming days including:

Saint Matthew Catholic Church in Tyrone, Aug. 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Walmart,  Willow Lane in McDonough, Aug. 22, noon-6 p.m.

Dutchtown High School, 149 Mitchell Rd. in Hampton, Aug. 23, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Walmart, Jonesboro Rd. in Morrow, Aug. 24, noon-6 p.m.

Grenzebach Corporation, 10 Herring Road in Newnan, Aug. 25, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Stockbridge High School, Aug. 26, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

For additional information call LifeSouth toll-free at 888-795-2707 or visit www.lifesouth.org.