Blood donors needed
Facing an emergency shortage of Type O blood, Vitalant is automatically entering anyone who donates blood, plasma or platelets now through July 27 for a chance to win $30,000 toward the purchase of a new car.
Extreme heat and summer vacations are believed to be contributing to low donor turnout during a time of year when injuries from outdoor activities increase. Blood donations during the Fourth of July week resulted in about 7,500 fewer donations than needed, creating a 30% shortfall. That was in addition to 8,000 fewer donations than needed in June.
Vitalant, the community blood center for about 900 hospitals nationwide, including hospitals in the Greater Pittsburgh area, is urging all donors, especially those with Type O, to make an appointment in the coming days.
“No doctor should have to face the impossible choice of which patient receives the blood they need and who must wait,” said Dr. Ralph Vassallo, Vitalant chief medical and scientific officer. “There isn’t anything that can substitute for lifesaving blood donations from generous donors. Donors of all blood types continue to be urgently needed.”
A community blood drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Peters Township Parks and Recreation Center, 700 Meredith Drive, Venetia.
Food trucks and raffles will be featured at the event. First-time donors will be entered to win a prize, and each donor will receive a $5 Crazy Horse gift card and free voucher for the Hott Dawgz Food Truck that will be on site.
Registration is available at bit.ly/3L1yjnx or by scanning the barcode on fliers promoting the event.
Donors of all blood types can make an appointment at vitalant.org, download and use the Vitalant app, or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).