BEAUMONT, Texas — The American Red Cross declared its first-ever national blood crisis on Tuesday. The organization warned if the supply isn't restocked, some patients may not be able to receive life-saving transfusions.
It's a scary trend. Blood banks are running critically low. So, why aren't people coming out to donate? Lifeshare Blood Center in Beaumont said COVID-19 in part, may be to blame.
It's a daily routine at the life share blood bank, healthcare workers drawing and storing blood. But they are missing a critical component: people to donate. It's a startling trend the entire nation is facing.
The American Red Cross said in part, "If the nation's blood supply does not stabilize soon, life-saving blood may not be available for some patients when it is needed,"
Tiffany Ybarra with the Lifeshare Blood Center said the need is real.
“So most of our, 75 percent of our blood comes from our mobile blood drives out in the seven counties we take care of,” Ybarra said. “We see groups showing lower participation, and are even hesitant to even schedule blood drives right now. That has had a huge impact on us right now.”
With empty chairs and now nearly empty blood containers, the organization is struggling to find people willing to donate and save a life.
Donor turnout is down, blood drives have been canceled throughout the pandemic and staffing shortages are all playing a role.
We spoke with one person donating blood who hopes his story inspires you to give.
“There are a lot of people in need of blood and platelets. I give platelets for the cancer patients. There is a lot of people in need for that, and they call me when they need some more, and if I have time I am able to come,” said a donor named John.
Blood banks need are in need of all blood no matter the type, or vaccination status.
As long as you do not have COVID-19 symptoms, you can donate blood.
“Southeast Texas is a great community. If we let people know that the need is there. They are usually very good to respond,” Ybarra said.