Blood Drive Scheduled

The American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage as the number of trauma cases, organ transplants and elective surgeries rise and deplete the nation's blood inventory.
Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are urged to make an appointment and give blood as soon as possible to prevent further impact to patients.
The American Red Cross has blood donation opportunities scheduled in Concordia on June 29 and June 30.
There will be a blood drive on June 29 at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 307 East Fifth St., from 12 p.m.-6 p.m.
On June 30 there will be a blood drive at OCCK, Inc., 1502 Lincoln St., from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Right now, hospitals are responding to an atypically high number of traumas and emergency room visits as well as overdoses and resulting transplants.
In comparison to 2019, the Red Cross has seen a demand from trauma centers climb by 10 percent in 2021, more than five times the growth of other facilities that provide blood transfusions.
“When seconds count in emergency trauma situations, it's the blood already on the shelves that can make the difference in lifesaving care,” Dr. Matthew Coleman, medical director of the Red Cross Kansas Oklahoma Region, said. “As many people are being able to enjoy travel and time with loved ones again this summer, patients are relying on the generosity of donors to help ensure they have access to the treatment they need. Please consider blood donation as a summer activity that can help save lives.”
Those who donate blood through June 30 will receive a $5 Amazon.com gift card via email, courtesy of Amazon. Restrictions apply.
Schedule an appointment to give blood by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting RedCross.org or calling 1-800-733-2767 or enabling the blood donor skills on any Alexa Echo device.