Oklahoma is facing a critical blood supply shortage and with a bit of paperwork, a prick in the arm, and an hour of their time, Lincoln County citizens have an opportunity to help.
From 9 am-2:30 pm, today, April 21, community members will be able to donate blood at Prague High School, through the Oklahoma Blood Institute.
In order to donate, 16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; and those 18 or older must weigh at least 110 pounds.
Photo IDs are required for all donors. The donation process takes about an hour and can save up to three lives.
This blood drive will help address an immediate need in the county and across the state, since Oklahoma Blood Institute has less than half of the blood supply needed, threatening a critical shortage for local patients, who rely on blood products to fight cancer, survive trauma and heal after childbirth.
The national supply has stayed near emergency levels for months, having never recovered from COVIDrelated challenges. Oklahoma’s supply has faced similar challenges, as well as blood drive cancellations after multiple winter weather events in February and March. Hospital demand has surged past pre-pandemic levels, exacerbating the issues caused by lower donation levels.
“All indicators are pointing us in a dangerous direction,” Oklahoma Blood Institute President and CEO Dr. John Armitage said. “Over the last several weeks donation numbers have dipped, which have left us struggling to keep stock levels necessary to protect our community. We need donors to respond immediately to help friends and neighbors using blood.”