Blood Assurance expects decline in summer blood donations

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – According to health experts, the summer season is when the need for blood is at its peak, and blood shortages during this time of year are pretty common.

Brooke Katz with Blood Assurance says, “Summer is probably one of the most difficult times of the year when it comes to maintaining a stable blood supply. And it’s because, you know, schools are out, which schools are a very large source of donations for us high schools and colleges.”

With most people traveling, there’s also a consistent decline in the amount of donations and an increase in the number of people who need blood almost every summer.

She also says, “It’s also known as the 100 deadliest days of summer, which is the time from Memorial Day to Labor Day, where there is typically a pretty big uptick in crashes on the roads, particularly involving teenagers, so we see this huge need from our hospitals this time of year, but often we see those donation rates drop.”

When people choose to donate, this isn’t just a good deed – this could save a life.

Katz says, “Blood or blood products are needed. And those reasons don’t take a summer vacation. And we’re really hoping to change that. We need people to come out and donate so that we can make sure that the hospitals have what they need to take care of every patient that comes through their doors.”

The next blood drive will be at the Greenwood Mall in Bowling Green. More details can be found on their website.