HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — North Alabama is experiencing a blood shortage, and local donation clinics are asking for your help.
Local blood donations have been decreasing since the start of 2020, according to Kami May, the District Community Development Coordinator at LifeSouth Community Blood Centers. May says that while donations are low, the number of people seeking blood transfusions continues to be high.
“Someone needs a blood transfusion every two seconds in the United States,” May says. “67,418 Alabamians will need a blood transfusion. So, it’s about one in seven, or so, right here in Alabama that will need a blood transfusion. When you hear stats like that, it’s startling.”
LifeSouth, specifically, saw a drop in donations after April 18th, when they stopped offering antibody testing, due to the local hospitals no longer asking for plasma.
Between the pandemic, snowfall and tornadoes, less people are offering blood donations than in 2019. May says that, while she understands the hesitancy, it’s very important to donate because one donation can save three lives.
“Think about the need, don’t think about the needle," May says. "I try to picture my mom or my dad who may need blood, and I know that my blood could go and help them."
LifeSouth is offering a Mother’s Day special through Monday. This weekend, a $10 gift card and a t-shirt is given with every donation.
“We are out seven days a week to collect blood," May says. "So, chances are, there’s a blood drive near you.”
For more information, go to www.lifesouth.org.