MBC calls for donations of all types—especially Type O—to prepare for seasonal demand
MINNESOTA – In anticipation of a potentially dangerous drop in blood donations ahead of the Thanksgiving and holiday season, Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) has declared a blood emergency and is urgently calling on the community to donate. The holiday season is a traditionally challenging time for blood donation, as family gatherings and holiday travel often lead to a decrease in donations.
Historically, donations drop by as much as 20% during the holiday season, creating a critical gap in the blood supply just as demand often rises due to travel-related accidents and other emergencies. As the holiday season approaches, MBC is calling on donations of all types – especially Type O, which is crucial for emergencies and trauma care.
“Every year, we brace for a dip in donations around the holidays, but the need for blood doesn’t slow down,” said Kathy Geist, Vice President at Memorial Blood Centers. “Our community relies on a steady flow of donors to keep our hospitals supplied, and we’re calling on all who are eligible to roll up their sleeves ahead of this holiday season. It is the ultimate holiday gift, now more than ever.”
“As the holiday season approaches, the demand for blood doesn’t take a break—if anything, it becomes more urgent. With higher risks of travel-related accidents and routine surgeries, our need for a stable blood supply grows,” said Kayla Fahey-Ahrndt | MPH, MLS(ASCP)cmSBBcm, Transfusion Medicine Program Manager at M Health Fairview. “Every donation made during this critical time can mean the difference between life and death for patients relying on transfusions. We encourage everyone who is eligible to give the gift of life this season.”
“During the holiday season, blood donations are essential to keep up with patient needs,” said Dawn Wicklund, Transfusion Services Supervisor at Essentia Health. “With more people traveling, accidents and emergencies can rise, and our demand for blood grows significantly. Every donation helps ensure that lifesaving blood is available when patients need it most. We urge everyone who can donate to give the gift of life this holiday season.”
MBC encourages new and returning donors to schedule an appointment and prioritize blood donation this holiday season. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit mbc.org or call 1.888.448.3253.
FOR MEDIA: MBC will be unveiling a new donor bus, designed to make blood donation more accessible across our communities. The unveiling will take place at St. Luke’s Hospital (915 East First St.) in Duluth on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024 at 10:30am. Media partners are invited to attend.
