Urgent Need for Blood Donors

Since 1970, January has been declared National Volunteer Blood Donor Month, and with good reason.  Above all other times of the year, it’s the month that presents the most challenges in recruiting people to give blood.  This January has proven to be no exception.

 

Changing weather, busy holiday schedules, increased cold and flu symptoms can keep even the most dedicated blood donors from making or keeping an appointment to give.  Yet winter months, especially at the beginning of a new year, always prove to have a higher need for blood at our area hospitals.

 

Our local United Blood Services offices in West Texas need 150 pints of blood a day to sustain the needs of the 22 area hospitals we service.  However, there is a huge dip in donations at this time and in fact all blood types are needed.   The San Angelo blood supply on hand is at 50% of the level it should be with O Negative at less than one half day. Cancellation of blood drives during the last two weeks of the year and the first two weeks of the new year are very common due to time limitations during the holiday season.  In addition, many donors are affected by the flu outbreak in the Concho Valley.

 

“There are so many unpredictable factors at play that can affect the blood supply during January.  It’s a critical time to remind the public of the need for more donors, said Linda Grace, Senior Donor Recruitment Rep for United Blood Services in San Angelo.  “If you are in good health, please come into our centers and donate today, with our without an appointment.”  

 

As an added bonus for donors, those who donate in the donation center or any mobile blood drive during the month of January will be entered in a drawing for a $500 Best Buy card.

 

For more information or to make an appointment call 325-223-7500 or toll free 800-756-0024 or go on line atunitedbloodservices.org.  United Blood Services Donation Center is located at 2020 W. Beauregard in San Angelo.