The American Red Cross has declared a national blood supply crisis for the second time, as summer conditions contribute to a critical shortage of blood donations.
The organization said its blood supply fell to less than a day’s supply of O-positive blood, a level that can make it difficult for hospitals and emergency rooms to meet patient needs.
The shortage is prompting donors across Metro Detroit to step up.
Local blood drives are being held throughout the region in partnership with the Red Cross and Gardner-White, giving residents an opportunity to help replenish the supply.
Peggy Martin, who has received blood transfusions in the past, said she wanted to donate after learning how low the nation’s supply had become.
“I’ve gotten blood transfusions before, but it’s my turn to give,” Martin said.
Martin said she saw reports that the blood supply had fallen to less than a day and knew she needed to help.
The Red Cross said summer is traditionally a challenging time for blood collections.
Vacations, travel and other seasonal activities can make it harder to maintain a steady stream of donors.
Jenn Serra with the American Red Cross said the crisis designation was issued after the organization had less than one day’s supply of O-positive blood available.
“That’s what the emergency rooms need to make sure patients’ needs are met,” Serra said.
Donors such as Angela Stephenson said giving blood is a way to help others while recognizing that anyone could eventually need a transfusion.
“I’m an organ donor, and so I think it’s important to give any way we can, because you never know if it’s going to be you that’s going to need it,” Stephenson said.
The response has already been strong at some Metro Detroit donation sites.
Appointments at the Taylor and Ann Arbor locations were fully booked as blood drives got underway.
Organizers are encouraging anyone who missed a recent drive to find another opportunity to donate.
Residents who donate between now and Aug. 28 are eligible to receive a $20 Amazon gift card, according to the Red Cross.
Additional blood drives are scheduled Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. at participating Gardner-White locations in Auburn Hills, Cadillac, Canton, Chesterfield Township, Howell, Saginaw, Shelby Township, Warren and Waterford.
Blood donors can check availability and schedule an appointment through the American Red Cross.
The national shortage underscores the importance of regular donations, organizers said, particularly during the summer months when collections traditionally decline.
For donors like Martin and Stephenson, the message is simple: A single donation can help save a life when someone needs blood most.