PNW blood supplies low, eligible donors urged to help

OLYMPIA – Blood supplies across the Northwest are running low, and the Washington State Department of Health is encouraging all eligible persons to donate blood so hospitals have lifesaving resources available for patients.

One pint of donated blood can save up to three lives by providing red blood cells, plasma, or platelets, say health officials.

The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive in Ephrata on Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Ephrata Recreation Center, 112 Basin St. S.W.

Summer is traditionally one of the most challenging times of the year for blood collection. School breaks, vacations, and busy schedules often lead to fewer donations, while the need for blood remains constant for trauma patients, cancer treatments, and surgeries.

It takes more than 1,000 donors a day to keep up with the demand for blood in the Northwest, the Washington Department of Health said in a recent press statement.

“This shortage is especially concerning because we’re in the middle of what’s known as the ‘100 Deadliest Days,’” said Curt Bailey, president and CEO of Bloodworks Northwest. “That’s the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when teen car crashes spike and donations drop. Last month, we had to bring in a record amount of blood from other parts of the country to keep up with the demand for blood locally.”

The American Red Cross also issued a national blood appeal, citing a significant decline in donations that’s affecting blood inventories across the country.

“The decline in donors is impacting our ability to maintain optimal inventory levels and meet hospital demand consistently across the region,” said Red Cross regional executive Angel Montes.

Red Cross officials say all blood types are needed right now. Anyone age 17 or older, weighing 110 pounds or more, and in good general health is a potential donor. 

An appointment for the Aug. 19 drive in Ephrata can be scheduled by calling 1-800-733-2767 or online at www.redcrossblood.org. A pre-donation “Rapid Pass” questionnaire can also be completed on the website. Prospective donors should bring personal identification and donor cards, or download the Blood Donor App on their smartphones.

Eligibility requirements and appointments with the other Northwest Blood Coalition members can be viewed at Bloodworks Northwest and Vitalant.