SEATTLE -- Western Washington's blood supply has been significantly reduced by a spike in demand over the last 10 days. This increased need for life-saving blood has placed stress on the supply resulting in a 20 percent drop in inventory since Sunday according to a release from the Puget Sound Blood Center.
The release adds, “For the safety and care of future patients, the Blood Center urges donations during August and as we head into the Labor Day holiday.”
“If we don't see a community response in blood donations, we could see an emergency situation going into Labor Day,” said Karen Kirby, a spokeswoman for the world’s largest centralized transfusion service, which serves patients in more than 70 Western Washington hospitals.
Terence Brown, stopped in to donate on his way home from work at the King County Courthouse. “Life isn't about me, it is about we and I just wanted to get in and help in every capacity I could,” Brown said while donating a unit of whole blood.
It takes 900 donors a day just to maintain an operation blood supply. Summer vacations have cut down on those making appointments. Summertime accidents are increasing demand on the blood supply.
The Blood Center is trying to avoid going into an emergency situation, which is just a two day supply.
Those willing to donate can schedule an appointment by calling 800-398-7888. Walk-ins are also welcome. Visit www.psbc.org for donation center hours of operation and driving directions.
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