The summer heat wave and severe storms may to blame for a dramatic drop in blood donations across the country.
The American Red Cross says blood donations have hit their lowest level in 15 years, with 50,000 fewer donations than expected in June.
They say summer is a typically slow time anyway for donations -- but this year, supplies are at the critical level. They believe stormy weather caused the cancellation of some blood drives, and the extreme heat has kept potential donors at home.
The Blood Center collects donations here in south Louisiana, and their holding a blood drive, this Thursday through Sunday.
The Blood Center posted this information on their web site at TheBloodCenter.org:
"IN IT FOR LIFE"
Blood-a-Thon 2012 this weekend at local malls
New Orleans - Earlier this year we asked, "Do you bleed black and gold?" Now we want to know "Are you "In It For Life?" If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, then Blood-a-Thon 2012 is the destination for you. The annual mall blood drive is being held this Thursday through Sunday, August 2nd through 5th at The Esplanade, Clearview, Lakeside, Oakwood Center, North Shore Square and Southland Mall. All blood donors will receive an exclusive black and gold "In It For Life", family blood coverage and a cholesterol check.
Lakeside Shopping Center Dillard's WingThursday - Saturday, August 2nd-4th:10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.Sunday, August 5th: Noon - 5:00 p.m. Clearview MallTarget WingThursday - Saturday, August 2nd-4th:Noon - 7:00 p.m.Sunday, August 5th: Noon - 5:00 p.m. The Esplanade Second Floor, Macy's WingThursday - Saturday, August 2nd-4th:Noon - 7:00 p.m.Sunday, August 5th: Noon - 5:00 p.m. Southland Mall Bloodmobile at Front EntranceThursday - Saturday, August 2nd-4th:Noon - 7:00 p.m.Sunday, August 5th: Noon - 5:00 p.m. North Shore Square Bloodmobile outside Food CourtThursday - Saturday, August 2nd-4th:Noon - 7:00 p.m.Sunday, August 5th: Noon - 5:00 p.m. Oakwood CenterBloodmobile at the Terry Parkway EntranceThursday - Saturday, August 2nd-4th:Noon - 7:00 p.m.Sunday, August 5th: Noon - 5:00 p.m.
In order to maintain a healthy and stable community blood supply, The Blood Center must collect between 300 to 350 pints of blood everyday. Donations typically drop during the summer and on holiday weekends, yet there is always someone who needs blood. Donating blood is safe, simple and easy and just one pint can help to save up to three lives.
Donors must be in good health, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be at least 17 years of age to donate blood. Sixteen year olds are now eligible to donate; they must weigh at least 130 pounds and have signed Blood Center parental consent form. Donors are encouraged to eat a healthful meal and drink plenty of fluids before and after donating. Please remember to bring a picture I.D.
