A cold front moving through the Southeast that is predicted to bring snow to major portions of Alabama and Georgia is also expected to further impact a blood shortage across the region.

Galen Unold, director of donor recruitment and retention with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, says the cold front and snow will mean blood drives in many affected communities could be canceled.

“This is coming at a time when supplies were already low because of reduced donations during the winter holidays,” Unold said. “Meanwhile, blood usage at many of our hospitals is far above normal, making the shortage even more serious.”

Unold said all blood types are needed, but blood types AB-positive and negative, and O-negative are in shortest supply. He said all the LifeSouth donor centers expect to be open on Friday, and where possible the bloodmobiles will be available for donors.

The American Red Cross currently has an urgent need for types O negative and B negative blood donations.  The distribution of those blood types are outpacing donations, creating an urgent need.

The American Red Cross’ mission is to ensure a safe and adequate blood supply for all patients through voluntary donations.

Check this out, Bama fans!  Starting on January 11th, LifeSouth will be giving away Alabama National Championship t-shirts to all Alabama blood donors.

January is National Blood Donor Month and LifeSouth is celebrating by holding drawings for an iPad Mini during January and February. Donate today and you will be entered in the drawings.
 
For more information visit LifeSouth's website or call 1-888-795-2707