LifeSouth issues emergency for all blood types

MADISON – LifeSouth Community Blood Centers hope that residents will listen to its slogan, “Save Lives. Give Blood,” as southeastern states are facing an emergency need for all blood types.

“LifeSouth only uses the word ‘emergency’ when the reserve supply to restock area hospitals drops below a two-day level,” LifeSouth District Director, Jason Hodges said.

“All blood types are needed, especially negative blood types and O negative, which is the universal donor and can be used by all patients in an emergency,” Hodges said. “

Platelet donations are also critically needed now.”

Historically, summer is a slow time for blood donations due to travel and school breaks, while the need to help patients in local hospitals remains constant. This summer continues to be a challenge, not only to LifeSouth, but also to blood centers across the country, he said.

“Patients at our hospitals depend on blood donors to survive. We need the help of our donors and new donors today,” Hodges said.

LifeSouth encourages donors to visit one of their donor centers or find a blood drive location on their website, lifesouth.org. First-time donors always are welcome and encouraged to give a try to the experience of donating blood. All donors are important to help meet the needs of the local blood supply.

All donors receive a thank-you gift and condensed physical examination, including blood pressure, temperature, iron level and cholesterol screen.

Donors must be at least 17 years old, or a 16-year-old with parental permission and who weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and is in good health can give blood. Donors must present photo identification.

LifeSouth’s Madison address is 8190 Madison Blvd. LifeSouth also has donor centers in Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Cullman, Sheffield, Florence and Albertville. LifeSouth’s bloodmobiles will be at numerous remote sites in coming days.

In LifeSouth’s Madison office, Eric Franchois works as District Community Development Coordinator. To reach Franchois, call 256-533-8246 or email egfranchois@lifesouth.org.

For additional information and bloodmobile schedules, call LifeSouth toll-free at 888-795-2707 or visit lifesouth.org.