Think About Donating Blood For The 4th
Donations from O-negative donors, the universal blood type, are especially important this time of year due to increased accidents and trauma cases.
FARGO, N.D. – As we approach the July 4th holiday and what will be a long weekend for many across the U.S., Vitalant is bracing for a national shortfall of nearly 8,500 blood donations the week of July 1.
In an effort to bolster local and national blood supplies and be prepared for unexpected events, Vitalant is calling on the community to come forward and give blood now and throughout the remainder of the summer.
Locally, Vitalant requires at least 250 donors each day to meet the needs of nearly 70 hospitals across North and South Dakota.
As the sole blood provider to those hospitals and their patients, it is imperative Vitalant has a safe and ample blood supply to ensure these patients have what they need.
Donations from O-negative donors, the universal blood type, are especially important this time of year due to increased accidents and trauma cases.
The current O-negative blood supply sits at an approximate two-day supply, which is half of the ideal quantity needed to support patient needs.
Additionally, platelet donations, which have a shelf-life of only five days, are always in high demand. However, donors of all types are needed.
“In addition to the typical summertime drop in donations, fewer donors are available because of the upcoming Fourth of July holiday,” said Jennifer Hawkins, Senior Director of Donor Recruitment for Vitalant’s North Division. “This holiday week, celebrate by giving blood and doing something good for others—and yourself.”
Vitalant urges both existing and first-time donors of all blood types to visit vitalant.org or call 877-25-VITAL to schedule an appointment at one of our 4 donor centers across North and South Dakota or at a mobile blood drive.
Donors can locate their nearest donation opportunity by visiting Vitalant.org and searching by their zip code.
Walk-ins are welcome at any of our locations.
