The winter storm that raced across the country the last few days impacted an already strained blood supply, according to officials with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers who report an emergency need for all blood types.
LIFESOUTH NEWS RELEASE:
“The storm hit at a time when blood supplies are already low due to the holidays, school closures and winter weather, while usage by hospitals continues to increase. The storm caused blood drives and blood donor centers to close in affected areas, which directly impacts the blood supply as blood donors are needed every day. LifeSouth urges the community to visit a donor center or a bloodmobile and donate.
Local hospitals like Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Wellstar rely on LifeSouth and LifeSouth blood donors to make sure blood is available before it is needed. All blood types are asked to donate now to ensure local hospitals have the blood needed to help patients suffering from traumas, cancers, and chronic illnesses.
In January all blood donors receive a $20 e-gift card and donors who donate platelets, plasma or a double red cell donation receive an additional $20 e-gift card. First time donors are encouraged to try blood donation, and LifeSouth asks regular donors to come to a blood drive or blood donor center and bring a friend.L
LifeSouth’s bloodmobiles will also be out at many locations in coming days. For additional information about donation or to find a blood drive near you, call LifeSouth toll-free at 888-795-2707 or visit www.lifesouth.org. Appointments can also be made online.”