Donors needed in July to prevent a blood shortage

Leonna Heuring/Standard Democrat Bill Martin of Sikeston, who was donating for his 41st time, looks at his phone while being stuck with a needle in preparation for a “Power Red” donation at an American Red Cross blood drive Thursday, July 13, 2023, at Sikeston Elks Lodge 2319. During a “Power Red” donation, the donor gives a concentrated dose of red cells, the part of blood used every day for those needing transfusions as part of their care, according to the Red Cross. Donors are asked to make an appointment as soon as possible to give blood or platelets now to avoid a looming blood shortage, the Red Cross said.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — The American Red Cross continues to see a concerning trend – blood donations are being sent to hospitals faster than they are coming in. The Red Cross has collected about 50,000 fewer blood donations than needed over the last two months.

Donors are asked to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now to avoid a looming blood shortage.

Locally, blood drives are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. July 18 at Miner Baptist Church, 416 State Route H; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 21 at Sikeston American Legion, 333 S. Kingshighway; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 24 at Sikeston VFW Hall, 709 Smith Ave.; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 7 at Missouri Department of Transportation, 2675 N. Main St.; 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Aug. 14 at Shady Acres Church of Christ, 1440 Ables Road, in Sikeston; 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 17 at YMCA of Southeast Missouri, 511 Taylor St., in Sikeston.

To help head off a more serious situation, the Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. Discovery for the 35th anniversary of Shark Week and the theatrical release of “Meg 2: The Trench.” The public is encouraged to celebrate a summer of sharks and help shore up the national blood supply by giving in July.

In thanks for helping, the Red Cross is offering several incentives to donors who come out to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks. Additionally, in response to the great need for blood, those who hurry in to help by coming to give July 1-16 will receive a limited-time bonus $15 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice.

All who gave July 1-11 received an exclusive Red Cross dry bag, while supplies lasted.

Those who come to give July 12-Aug 12 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Shark.

Presenting donors from July 17-31 will receive an officially licensed Shark Week T-shirt, while supplies last. Donors will also be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Shark.

By scheduling and keeping appointments in July, donors can help provide for those in immediate need of lifesaving care. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).