January is National Blood Donor Month, and Blood Assurance is reminding communities across Middle Tennessee that winter is one of the most challenging times to maintain a healthy blood supply.
Blood donations traditionally decline during the winter months due to holiday travel, seasonal illnesses, and weather-related disruptions. At the same time, hospital demand for blood remains steady and often increases. According to America’s Blood Centers, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds, yet only about three percent of eligible donors give blood each year. Blood Assurance officials note that even a one percent increase in donors could prevent blood shortages nationwide.
Currently, Blood Assurance reports a need for all blood types, with a critical shortage of O-negative blood, AB plasma, and platelet donations. These blood products are essential for cancer patients, trauma victims, and individuals undergoing major surgeries. As the primary supplier of blood and blood products for most hospitals in Middle Tennessee, Blood Assurance says local donations have a direct and immediate impact on local patients.
“National Blood Donor Month recognizes donors, but it’s also a reminder of how fragile the blood supply can be,” said Garry Allison, senior vice president of operations for Blood Assurance. “Blood can’t be manufactured, and it has a short shelf life. Local donations directly impact patients in our hospitals.”
To encourage donations during National Blood Donor Month, Blood Assurance is offering January incentives. All donors will receive a free blanket, available in cream or burgundy while supplies last. In addition, O-negative blood donors and AB plasma donors will receive a $25 e-gift card.
Donors can schedule an appointment at bloodassurance.org, call 800-962-0628, or text BAGIVE to 999777. Tullahoma residents may donate at the Blood Assurance center located at 604 North Jackson Street near Walgreens by calling 931-461-5773. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
To be eligible, donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental consent, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health. Donors are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, avoid caffeine, and eat an iron-rich meal prior to donating.
Founded in 1972, Blood Assurance is a nonprofit regional blood center serving more than 70 health care facilities across Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, and North Carolina.
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