FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Blood Assurance is facing a severe shortage of O-negative blood, with just 10 units available as of Tuesday, August 13. O-negative blood is crucial because it can be donated to any blood type, making it vital for emergencies when a patient’s blood type is unknown.
The nonprofit organization is also calling for donors of all blood types to schedule an appointment. The nonprofit is calling on donors of all blood types to schedule an appointment. To encourage donations, Blood Assurance is offering an exclusive "Save 3 Lives" tote bag to all donors this month. Additionally, donors who give blood twice or donate double units by August 31 will be entered into a drawing to win four tickets to Dollywood and a hotel credit.
Upcoming donation events:
Fort Payne:
- Walmart, Mobile Drive: August 16, 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Crowne Health Care of Fort Payne, Mobile Drive: August 21, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- McDonald's Fort Payne, Mobile Drive: August 27, noon - 4 p.m.
Scottsboro:
- Walmart, Mobile Drive: August 16, noon - 5 p.m.
- First Southern State Bank, Mobile Drive: August 21, 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids, avoid caffeine, and eat an iron-rich meal before donating.
To schedule an appointment, visit here, call 800-962-0628, or text BAGIVE to 999777.
