#United States #Indianapolis #Blood Donation #Versiti Blood Center #Emergency Supplies

Urgent Call for Blood Donations

In a pressing appeal, the Versiti Blood Center of Indiana has highlighted a dire shortage of blood supplies following severe winter storms and a marked increase in illness across the region. This situation has left local hospitals with less than a day's worth of essential blood types, threatening the availability of critical treatments and surgeries.

Dr. Dan Waxman, vice president of transfusion medicine at Versiti, emphasized the real impacts of blood shortages, stating, "Blood shortages aren't just statistics — they mean real lives hanging in the balance. When hospitals run out of blood, critical treatments are delayed, surgeries are postponed, and lives are at risk."

The urgency of the situation is further underscored by the story of Divinity Crittendon, who had to rely on blood donations during her emergency C-section. Crittendon required an astounding 276 units of blood during her delivery. After 21 harrowing days recovering in the hospital on a ventilator, she was finally able to embrace her newborn son, Tyree. "I'm not a statistic, and I want people to be more aware of these types of situations and let them know that donating really helps," she shared, underlining the importance of blood donations in saving lives.

Proactive blood donation is critical to ensuring that hospitals are equipped to manage unforeseen emergencies, such as those involving trauma victims, cancer patients, and organ transplant recipients. It's noteworthy that blood transfusions are needed in approximately one out of every 83 baby deliveries in the United States.

As the need for blood remains paramount, donors are encouraged to step forward. The donation process is safe and efficient, allowing individuals to give blood up to six times a year. Of particular concern is the supply of O negative blood, known as the universal donor type, which is currently in critically low supply.

To support the cause, you can schedule an appointment to donate blood by calling (317) 916-5150 or by visiting versiti.org to find a donor center or community blood drive near you. Walk-in donations are also welcomed at various donor center locations, including:

• - Carmel: 726 Adams St., Suite 150
• - Fishers: 11005 Allisonville Road
• - Greenwood: 8739 U.S. 31 South
• - Indianapolis: 3450 N. Meridian St.
• - Lafayette: 2200 Elmwood Ave., Suite D-16
• - Terre Haute: 2021 S. Third St.

Donating blood typically takes about an hour, with blood donation opportunities available for those aged 16 and older who meet health eligibility criteria. For donors aged 16, parental consent is required, and it is necessary to present a photo ID that indicates your birthdate.

About Versiti Blood Center of Indiana
Each year, over 90,000 residents of Indiana contribute blood through Versiti Blood Center, a non-profit organization that has been serving the community since 1952. With numerous donation centers and mobile blood drives across the state, Versiti is committed to providing a safe and consistent supply of blood services to more than 95 hospitals in Indiana and beyond. For more information on how you can help, visit versiti.org.