from staff reports
The Meridian Star
MERIDIAN — United Blood Services, the area's only blood provider; reminds everyone to make time to step forward and give blood at their earliest convenience.
"Now is the perfect time to donate blood. We all know to set our clock forward in the spring… and to change batteries in our smoke detectors. We encourage everyone to also make it a habit to set aside an hour and donate blood," said Heather Knight, United Blood Services spokesperson. "At this time, our inventories remain at lower than normal levels — and donor participation has not kept up with demand. That is why we're asking all eligible donors of all blood types to step forward and give blood now."
United Blood Services also said there is an elevated need for donors with AB type blood to come in and make a plasma donation to help replenish low stocks levels.
"Volunteer blood, platelet and plasma donors are needed each day. New technologies allow for more convenient and pleasant donor experiences — and these new technologies also allow the blood center to rapidly replenish dwindling inventories," Knight said. "If you have already made an appointment to donate, we thank you — and encourage you to make every effort to keep that appointment. If you've not made an appointment yet, or have never given blood— we need you now; please give."
Those wishing to donate should visit www.bloodhero.com to make an appointment or call (601) 482-2482 to get directions or operational hours at the Bonita Lakes Draw Center in Meridian.
