The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage after the nation’s blood supply dropped nearly 25 percent in June, prompting an urgent call for donors to help meet growing hospital demand.
The shortage is especially critical for platelet donations and blood types O positive and B negative.
According to the Red Cross, blood donations have declined sharply since the end of May, while hospitals are using more blood than expected during the busy summer trauma season.
The organization says it is currently supplying nearly 3,500 more units of blood to hospitals each week than anticipated, creating a widening gap between supply and patient needs.
Busy summer schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives have also contributed to the decline.
“A readily available blood supply serves as the backbone of modern medicine,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, medical director for the American Red Cross. “We’re asking donors to give now before doctors are forced to make difficult decisions about patient care.”
The organization also hopes to correct some common misconceptions about blood donation.
A recent Red Cross survey found that fewer than one in five people realize blood cannot be stockpiled because it has a limited shelf life.
The survey also found that only about half of respondents believed they or someone close to them would ever need a blood transfusion, even though someone in the United States receives blood every two seconds.
Among those whose lives have depended on donated blood is Pickerington teacher Robin Sharps.
After suffering complications from blood clots and a pulmonary embolism, she required 114 units of blood products during a 48-hour period.
The Red Cross says her story is a reminder of why maintaining a strong blood supply is so important.
There are several opportunities for local residents to help replenish the blood supply.
The next area blood drive will be held Wednesday, July 22, from noon to 6 p.m. at Indian Lake Community Church in Russells Point.
Additional upcoming drives include the Champaign County Fair in Urbana on Wednesday, August 12, from noon to 6 p.m.
Appointments can be made through the Red Cross website or the Blood Donor App.
As a thank-you, everyone who donates between July 13 and July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email, valued at up to $15, including ticket price and fees.
