MINNESOTA – Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) has declared a blood emergency in Minnesota as the state’s blood supply drops below a 2-day inventory, far below the 7-day supply needed to meet hospital and patient needs. While all blood types are urgently needed, the shortage is especially severe for types O-negative and O-positive, which are vital for emergency situations and trauma care.
“We urgently need the community’s help to rebuild the blood supply and prevent this situation from becoming more dire,” said Kathy Geist, Vice President at Memorial Blood Centers. “Donating blood is one of the most direct and impactful ways to support our healthcare system and save lives.”
Summer has brought an expected decline in donations, driven by vacations, school breaks, and intense heat waves that have kept donors indoors. Combined with increased trauma cases, the impact on the local blood supply has been severe. “Every time you hear a siren or see a helicopter overhead, there’s a chance that patient will need blood,” said Geist. “We need to make sure it’s on the shelves before they ever get to the hospital.”
Minnesota’s hospitals aren’t alone in this crisis. Blood shortages are a growing concern nationwide. But the solution is local – and immediate. MBC is calling on community members to step up now and ensure blood is available for those who need it.
Alana Sutherland, Technical Advisor for Transfusion Services at Allina Health, emphasized the urgency: “The availability of blood and blood products is vital for the safety and care of our patients, especially those who have suffered trauma, are undergoing highly invasive surgical procedures, or are being treated for certain malignancies. Blood is not manufactured. It is donated by generous people who are willing to help.”
Dr. Andrea Watson, Pediatric Hematology & Oncology at Essentia Health, added: “Every day in Minnesota, a child being treated for cancer needs a lifesaving transfusion. Give these children a future by donating blood today.”
Local mother Jena Mertz knows the lifesaving power of blood firsthand; her daughter survived thanks to more than 180 blood donations. “Red cell and platelet donations literally saved my daughter’s life. There is no substitute for the 180+ blood donations she received, and she would not be here without blood donors,” said Mertz.
Local parents, Stephanie & Jesse Wenker, also understand the importance of blood donation: their infant daughter, Sarah, is thriving today thanks to more than 90 blood transfusions. “Blood donors are unsung heroes whose generosity truly saved our daughter’s life. When her body was too sick to fight on its own, the kindness of strangers gave her strength and life,” said Stephanie. “Our little girl is proof that every donation matters. We urge everyone to give if they can — it really is the gift of life.”
How You Can help:
In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit mbc.org or call 1.888.448.3253.
