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Blood donors needed to avoid shortage

| July 13, 2023 12:00 AM

The American Red Cross announced this week that it 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 now to avoid a looming blood shortage.

Lake County residents have two opportunities to give blood in the next week: July 13 from 11 a.m.-5:45 p.m. at St. Luke Community Hospital in Ronan; and July 18 from noon-5:15 p.m. at the Church of Latter Day Saints on 4th Ave. E. in Polson.

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” with incentives to donors who give blood or platelets.

Those who come 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. And those who give July 17-31 will receive an officially licensed Shark Week T-shirt, while supplies last. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Shark.

Additionally, those who hurry in to help by July 16 will receive a limited-time bonus $15 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice.

To make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.