January marks National Blood Donor Month, a campaign aimed at boosting blood and platelet donations during a period when supplies often dwindle. The San Diego Blood Bank is actively participating in this initiative throughout the month, encouraging donations at its centers and mobile blood drives. Those who donate by January 25 will receive a special long-sleeved T-shirt featuring the slogan “Yeti or Not, Make a Difference,” while supplies last.
Doug Morton, chief executive officer of the San Diego Blood Bank, emphasized the critical need for donations, stating, “Blood is unique in our healthcare system. There is no substitute, and it cannot be synthetically made, so volunteer blood donations are the only way to provide blood to hospital patients in need.”
The urgency for donations is underscored by a warning from the American Red Cross, which reports that the blood supply is approaching a critical shortage. The organization noted that following a busy holiday season, combined with severe winter weather, it has become increasingly challenging to maintain adequate supplies for hospitals. Without immediate action, doctors may face difficult decisions regarding blood transfusions for patients.
The statistics are telling: someone in the United States requires blood every two seconds, and approximately one in seven patients admitted to hospitals will need a transfusion. This need spans a wide range of medical situations, including trauma incidents, surgeries, and treatments for conditions such as sickle cell disease and anemia. Cancer patients account for a significant portion of blood usage, representing about a quarter of all donations. Furthermore, blood transfusions are necessary in one out of every 83 newborn deliveries.
To be eligible to donate, individuals must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in generally good health. Appointments for donations are encouraged and can be made through the San Diego Blood Bank’s website or by calling (619) 400-8251. Walk-ins are also welcome at various donation events.
The San Diego area will host several blood donation opportunities affiliated with the Red Cross through the end of January. Notable locations and dates include:
– **Bonsall**: January 16, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Bonsall High School
– **Cardiff-by-the-Sea**: January 15, noon – 6 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
– **Carlsbad**: January 20, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Bermuda Club Carlsbad
– **Chula Vista**: January 19, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Chula Vista Elks Lodge
– **Escondido**: January 20, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Escondido Charter High School
– **La Jolla**: January 28, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., UCSD Price Center
– **San Diego**: January 14, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., San Diego Public Library
Additional details regarding donation opportunities can be found on the Red Cross website, or by contacting them at 1-800-733-2767. Those interested in making a life-saving contribution are encouraged to participate in this important initiative during National Blood Donor Month.
