The community blood supply has reached dangerously low levels that could potentially affect patient well-being. LifeStream blood bank is urging people to make a difference to patients in need by donating blood. Sara Snyder says O-negative blood is especially needed…
Lifestream, the region’s blood bank, is in desperate need of O-negative blood, as there is insufficient supply to meet the demand of local hospitals. Only about 7 percent of the population has O-negative blood. Those with O-negative blood are known as “universal donors,” as their blood can be accepted by all others regardless of the recipient’s blood type. O-negative blood is especially critical in emergencies when there’s no time to determine the recipient’s blood type. However, when someone with O-negative blood needs a transfusion, their system can only accept O-negative blood. For the location and hours of LifeStream donor centers and mobile blood drives, call 800-879-4484.
