LifeSouth in dire need for blood donors
MADISON – As people take to the roadways, summertime is full of fun diversions, but the season also brings an increased need for blood in local hospitals. LifeSouth Community Blood Center in Madison has issued an emergency alert to donors of all types of blood.
“LifeSouth faces an emergency need for all blood types and encourages the community to donate blood,” Eric Franchois said. Franchois work as District Community Development Coordinator for LifeSouth.
“Summer is historically a slow time for blood donations, due to travel and school breaks, while the need to help patients in local hospitals remains constant,” Franchois said. “Summer’s impact has not only been a challenge to LifeSouth but also to blood centers across the country.”
LifeSouth asks donors to visit a donor center or find a blood drive location on their website, lifesouth.org. “First-time donors are always welcome and encouraged to give blood donation a try,” Franchois said.
A blood drive is scheduled for Walgreen’s at 7813 U.S. 72 in Madison on June 16 from 3 to 6 p.m.
LifeSouth needs all blood types, especially negative blood types and O negative, which is the universal donor and all patients can use in an emergency. Platelet donations also present a critical need now.
All donors receive a thank-you gift, along with a mini-physical that includes blood pressure check, temperature, iron level and cholesterol screen.
Donors must be at least 17 years old. However, a 16-year-old can donate blood with parental permission, if the individual weighs a minimum of 110 pounds and is in good health. The donor will be a photo ID.
Many medications can prevent an individual from giving blood. However, people still can donate while taking medications in the treatment of non-infectious diseases, such as arthritis, chronic pain and gout.
LifeSouth has five donor centers across North Alabama. LifeSouth’s bloodmobiles also will travel to numerous locations in upcoming weeks.
To find a blood drive or to make an appointment to donate, call 888-795-2707 or visit lifesouth.org.
LifeSouth’s address in Madison is 8190 Madison Blvd. For more information, email Franchois at egfranchois@lifesouth.org.
