The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations, specifically types O-negative and O-positive, to meet the needs of local hospitals in San Antonio. As demand increases, the center is collaborating with community partners to organize several blood drives throughout the region.
Community-Driven Efforts to Boost Blood Supply
To encourage participation, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center has implemented enhanced safety measures at these blood drives. Donors are required to wear face coverings and will undergo a screening process to ensure they do not exhibit symptoms related to COVID-19. “Everything’s been sanitized in front of me, so I feel like it’s very safe and probably more secure than prior to COVID-19,” said donor Gretchen Young, who participated in a recent drive at MacArthur Park Church of Christ.
On a recent Sunday morning, the center saw a significant turnout, with 120 people registered to donate. According to Roger Ruiz, a corporate communications specialist with the center, sanitizing equipment between appointments is crucial to maintaining safety standards. “We make sure that we can maintain social distancing and that you have a safe donation process when you come through here,” Ruiz emphasized.
In an effort to attract more donors, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is offering incentives such as HEB gift cards and car wash vouchers. Ruiz expressed the critical need for donations, stating, “We need a 100% to show up, because that’s all that we’re collecting in the community right now. Patients need our help.”
Impact of Blood Donations on Local Patients
The need for blood is particularly pressing in light of ongoing medical treatments and emergencies that require transfusions. Young, who began donating blood regularly after her son spent time in the neonatal intensive care unit, highlighted the importance of contributions during challenging times. “COVID-19 really isn’t scaring me away,” she noted.
The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center serves 48 counties and supplies blood to numerous hospitals and clinics across the region. In response to the growing need, the center plans to host additional blood drives. Organizations with suitable spaces are encouraged to contact the center at 210-731-5590 to help facilitate future donation events.
As the community rallies to support this initiative, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center remains committed to ensuring a safe and effective donation process. With local hospitals relying on the generosity of donors, the call for O-negative and O-positive blood remains urgent.
