Carter BloodCare says they need your blood
The blood supply in north, central and east Texas has reached a two-year low, according to Carter BloodCare.
Now, the organization is pleading for the community to give them blood donations.
“The blood available is less than one day’s supply, and willing blood donors are necessary to prevent disruptions in patient care at area hospitals,” a news release said. “Without volunteer donors, there is no other way to provide blood or platelet transfusions for patients.”
For the next week, all donors with blood types Rh negative (O-, A- and B-) are needed. Blood type O Rh positive is also critically low. The organization said that is concerning because it is the primary blood type used by trauma experts when a massive blood transfusion is required.
“Carter BloodCare typically likes to see 1,000 donors each day in order to maintain the community blood supply at a safe and sufficient level,” said Doug Heath, director of lab operation. “The week ahead shows an estimated 3,000 appointments short of that target. This is a situation that will not go away overnight.”
Standard eligibility requirements are a minimum weight of 110 pounds, the donor feels well that day and presents a government-issued photo ID at each donation. Potential blood donors may volunteer at age 16 with parental consent; 17-year-olds and older may give independently. Text or call 800-366-2834, or visit carterbloodcare.org to make an appointment.
