With a significant blood shortage across the country, non-profits are desperately trying to boost supplies.
Verciti Blood Center of Michigan hosted a blood drive on Saturday at Ford Field.
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“I love to help people and this is my way of helping,” said Cynthia as she donated blood.
Another donor named Willie said “I read about the blood shortage and I’m getting over a stroke. I have too many red blood cells so I figured this is the best time to do it,” he said.
In June, the American Red Cross declared an emergency nationwide blood shortage after supplies plummeted nearly a quarter. Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is trying to bridge the gap.
“We have to collect over 500 units of blood every day to supply hospitals in Michigan with life-saving blood,” said Dawn Kaiser, the director of donor services at Verciti Blood Center of Michigan. “If we don’t have that we start worrying about our inventory,” Dawn said.
Every person who came out on Saturday donated a pint of blood. Every donation will help three people, from cancer patients to those suffering traumatic injuries.
“It’s crazy out here now so we gotta look out for each other and Go Lions!!” said Willie.