There is a critical need for blood donations in the U.S. right now.
The American Red Cross says there’s a severe blood shortage.
The Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin is reporting less than a day’s supply of blood in the state.
The Community Blood Center says its supply is stable but concerning.
“Especially looking at the days and weeks ahead, we need to see donors. We need to see donors of all blood types to help ensure that we can meet the needs of our hospital partners and the patients in their care,” said CBC PR and Community Engagement Specialist Juliana Jarchow.
Jarchow said it’s a challenge every summer.
People want to get out and enjoy the warm weather or go on vacation. She said that need may be even greater this year.
“People maybe didn’t get the summer they are used too last year so they’re making up for it this summer,” said Jarchow.
At the same time, recreation-related injuries increase driving up the demand for blood donations.
The CBC is trying to make it as easy as possible to donate blood.
It’s holding blood drives in several Northwoods communities this month as part of its Save Someone’s Summer Tour.
“We have lots of stops on that tour, lots of blood donation opportunities to again, make sure people have the chance to donate blood and make a lasting impact in someone’s life. What better way to spend your summer than by saving someone’s, saving someone’s life, saving someone’s summer,” she said.
It’s also bringing back its Hodag MASH blood drive in Rhinelander next week. The drive is next Wednesday, July 14th, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Rhinelander National Guard Armory.
“This is such an awesome event. It’s so much fun. We’ll be cooking some brats and hot dogs on the grill for donors after their donation. Really kind of just a summertime tradition that we love being able to do,” Jarchow said.
The Community Blood Center is the sole blood and platelet provider to nearly 30 hospitals in the Midwest- including many here in northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula.
That means your donation is likely saving the life of someone in your community.
You can sign up for the Hodag MASH Drive or one of the other stops on the Save Someone’s Summer Tour at communityblood.org.
