Daily Herald opinion: A critical shortage, a dire need: Donating blood the ultimate gift during supply crisis

The American Red Cross recently declared a national blood supply crisis — only the second in the organization’s history.

Blood donations are down, falling to a four-year low. At the same time, demand goes up over the summer, when emergency room trauma visits spike.

The Red Cross reported earlier this week that it had less than a day’s supply of O positive blood, the most commonly infused blood type. That’s days shy of the five-day preferred minimum, according to the American Red Cross of Illinois

And that critical gap is hitting home locally as well, as suburban blood banks report a drop in donors amid a critical need for blood, especially type O, as our Christopher Placek reports on today’s front page.

That is frightening news for all of us, and not just those preparing for surgery.

There are any number of reasons why you — or someone you love — might wind up in need of a transfusion: a car crash, a bike accident, cancer treatment, severe anemia, natural disasters, even complications of childbirth.

This summer’s weather extremes — including high temperatures and poor air quality from wildfires — are contributing to the drop in donors nationally. Locally, weather deterrents include severe storms, which have caused widespread damage and knocked out power for thousands.

Some blood banks are trying to encourage donations with gift cards and other giveaways. Donations made today through the Red Cross will send you home with a Fandango movie ticket. August donors will receive a $20 Amazon gift card.

While a gift card or movie pass are nice perks, the greatest motivator for donating is the ability to improve another person’s chances of survival in the emergency room or on the operating table.

Type O donors are especially appreciated. That’s because blood from an O positive donor can be shared with about 80% of patients in need, according to the Red Cross. O negative is universal, meaning it can be infused in emergencies when there isn’t time to check a patient’s blood type.

If you’ve never donated, this summer would be a wonderful time to start. And if it’s been awhile, please schedule an appointment or find a blood bank that takes drop-ins. You can search at redcrossblood.org or call (800) 733-2767 to find a donation spot near you.

Those 17 and older are eligible to donate if they are in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds. With a parent’s consent, 16-year-olds can give as well.

Certain conditions and medications may keep someone from being able to donate, but you can check online or call (866) 236-3276 if you are unsure.

It does not take long to be a blood donor. But having your donation in the right place at the right time could truly save a life.