Bloodworks Northwest Blood Drive Thursday
Bloodworks Northwest is hosting a blood drive in partnership with Whole Foods Market in Bellevue (888 116th Ave NE) on Thursday, July 14.
Those who register to donate to Bloodworks Northwest at the Bellevue Whole Foods Market on Thursday will receive a complimentary pound of coffee.Bloodworks Northwest issued an urgent appeal for donors today after inventories dipped sharply as a result of reduced collections caused by summer vacations.
“Summer is always a challenging time for blood collection, and we’re already at the point where inventories of the most-needed blood types are at critical levels – meaning we have only a two or three day supply,” said Dr. James P. AuBuchon, president and CEO of Bloodworks Northwest. “Blood collections usually fall by about 15-20 percent during summer with schools and colleges on break and donors on vacation.”
“Recent tragedies underscore the fact that it is the blood already on the shelves that is essential when unforeseeable emergencies happen, so we are grateful for all donors who generously donate at times like this — when the need is acute,” AuBuchon said.
The call for donors in the Northwest echoes data showing a nationwide blood shortage that today resulted in a joint appeal by leading U.S. blood organizations urging summertime blood donation.
The need for blood is continuous through the summer to support the normal needs of the regional healthcare system. Patients continue to undergo surgeries and organ transplants. ERs treat traumatic injuries and people receive blood components for cancer treatment. It takes about 900 donors a day to maintain a sufficient blood supply for more than 90 hospitals served by Bloodworks Northwest in Washington, Oregon and Alaska.
“To avoid a summer crunch we’re asking donors who have not donated recently to schedule an appointment during the next two weeks,” AuBuchon said. “First-time donors are always welcome, too.”
There is a special need for O blood type (positive and negative), platelets, and AB plasma.
Donors can go to any one of 12 Bloodworks Northwest donor centers, or can check online for community blood drives happening close to where they live or work. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.