Health officials in Kentucky are hoping an annual blood donation competition will replenish the commonwealth’s supply.
The Kentucky Blood Center is once again encouraging people to donate blood during the Big Blue Crush blood drive. The annual contest pits KBC against the Medic Regional Blood Center in Tennessee to see who can get the most donations in just one week.
Eric Lindsey is the Director of Media and Branding at Kentucky Blood Center. He said donors are notified by text when their donation makes it to the hospital it will be used at.
“And people used to get that text message, you know, 10, 11, 12 days after their donation. Well, if you come in and donate with us today, there’s probably a good chance you’re going to get that text message on Thursday or Friday, saying your blood has reached so and so hospital. Which goes to show you how we’re barely keeping up with the need,” said Lindsey.
Lindsey said the state’s blood supply has been low since the beginning of the pandemic. The KBC spokesman said the need becomes even greater during the holidays.
“We know that next week is going to be tough on us, so this event is geared towards, ‘Hey, knowing what we have ahead next week, let’s get as much as we can on the shelves, let’s be proactive, let’s get as much blood as we can in here this week so that we can make up for the difficulties we’re going to face next week,’” said Lindsey.
Lindsey said increased travel around the holidays and resulting traffic accidents also contribute to the low supply. On top of holiday concerns,
Big Blue Crush runs through this Friday. People can donate at any of the eight Kentucky Blood Center locations or find a mobile clinic online at kybloodcenter.org.
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