Continued Urgent Need for Blood Donors (July10, 2005)

CONTINUED URGENT NEED FOR BLOOD DONORS

Local hospitals concerned about blood shortage

Blue Bell offers “Pint for a Pint” to donors

SAN ANTONIO – The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is encouraging all eligible donors to visit a blood drive or blood collection facility as soon as possible. The blood supply has reached a critical stage with less than 1000 units on the shelf. While type “O” blood is most needed, all blood types are strongly encouraged to donate.

“The entire country is experiencing extremely low levels of donations and high needs for blood, which are rapidly depleting supplies,” said Dr. Norman Kalmin, President/CEO and Medical Director for STBTC. “Local hospitals have expressed concern and may have to start canceling non-emergency surgeries” Non-emergency surgeries may include an organ transplant or a heart by-pass surgery.  “Any time we reach such a critical level, we look closely at our preparedness to respond to national security issues.”

STBTC is partnering with Blue Bell Ice Cream to quickly develop a community-wide campaign encouraging donations.  The “Pint for Pint” campaign, will offer donors all in-bank donors a pint of ice cream for their donation of blood or platelets.  People who give at the Northeast or Methodist donor rooms can redeem their coupon at the Headquarters location.  This campaign will run Sunday, July 10 through Saturday July 16 while supplies last.

STBTC has extended its hours of operation to make it more convenient for donors.  STBTC, serves more than 100 hospitals and clinics throughout South Texas, relies on volunteer blood donors to provide more than 200,000 components of life-saving blood and tissue in our community each year.

Anyone 17 years or older who weighs at least 110 pounds and is in good, general health may donate blood by visiting one of our four locations.  All donors must present photo identification. Donors should eat at least four hours before their donation, and drink plenty of fluids, such as water and fruit juice, before and after donating.

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