HUNTSVILLE, Ala — LifeSouth is putting out a call for blood donors after severe weather events affected both the current supply and the ability of people to donate. They say the community blood supply continues to be dangerously low due to the impact of COVID-19 and prior storms.
“During [the March 25] storms, our whole District only collected 73 units of blood total,” Kami May, District Community Development Coordinator said. “On average, Huntsville Hospital is known to request 80 units or more at a time to keep their trauma center stocked with an adequate amount of blood products,” May added.
LifeSouth officials report that this severe weather could not have come at a worse time, as there is a national shortage of blood, and the storm has impacted much needed blood drives. Donating ensures blood will be available to help those who may be injured or need a blood transfusion to survive.
LifeSouth says blood donations also help other regions in need throughout Alabama.
"Once North Alabama needs are met, they're going to be calling on us, their Northern partners, to send them the blood that they need for UAB, and other hospitals in the Tuscaloosa area there 'cause they serve that area as well," says May.
LifeSouth urges regular and first-time donors to give blood as soon as possible. All blood donors receive a wellness screen prior to donation. To find a blood drive close to you or to learn more about the donation process, call LifeSouth’s toll-free number, 1-888-795-2707 or make an appointment at www.lifesouth.org.
To give blood you must be in good health, 17 years or older (or 16 with parental permission), weigh at least 110 pounds and show a valid photo I.D. Click here for answers to common questions about eligibility and to find a Blood Center near you.
LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 100 hospitals in Alabama, Florida and Georgia.