Blood in short supply after holidays
The holidays have left blood banks in the region critically low. Marquette General Hospital is conducting a series of blood drives across the Upper Peninsula to re-supply the U.P. Regional Blood Center.
A steady stream of volunteers visited SIR Federal Credit Union in Negaunee today as they held a blood drive. Officials say people are busy with many different things during the holidays, so giving blood isn’t at top of people’s minds. But the need is great, and community organizations have stepped up to help out.
“Here at SIR, we like to get involved in our community and try to give back as much as we can, so what better opportunity to have the bloodmobile and help save a life in our community?” SIR Federal Credit Union blood donation organizer Samantha Barabe said.
“It’s really easy, it’s not very painful; it’s a quick poke and you sit and donate blood,” Marquette General licensed practical nurse Amy Kohl said. “It’s kind of a relaxing experience for some people.”
The types of blood that are critically needed are A-positive, A-negative, B-negative, O-positive and O-negative.
If you are interested in donating blood there are a few upcoming blood drives. On Monday, Bethany Lutheran Church in Ishpeming is having a blood drive. Baraga County Memorial Hospital is having one on Tuesday.
Next Thursday, you can visit the Blanchard Center in Manistique. On January 23rd, Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid River is getting into the act, and so is the Humboldt Township Hall on the 24th.
You can also donate blood at the U.P. Regional Blood Center at any time by calling (906) 225-4610 for an appointment.