Only Donors

Only Donors By Samantha C Sinclair

Did you know every two seconds someone needs a blood transfusion in the US? When we think of this we think of trauma or burn victims. However, media and branding director with Ky Blood Center, Eric Lindsey reminds us there are multiple needs for transfusions. Cancer patients are 25 percent of recipients. With 250 employees, two thousand mobile blood drives happen every year. Lindsey explained in our conversation, that breaks down to three to ten a day. There are also brick andmortar locations open six days a week. All blood donated is used in Kentucky. KBC covers 70 hospitals in the state.

Lindsey wants to remind everyone this donation requires no money, and takes only 45 minutes. Your donation could impact, and possibly save up to three lives. Guidelines from the FDA are followed, and rigorous testing to insure safety take place. When the donor arrives at the location they will fill out a health history, medication form, locations traveled, have a finger prick and vitals taken. If approved as a donor, they will donate. Long after the donor leaves with refreshments, the safety measures continue. After the blood is thoroughly tested in Lexington, it is transported on. Tubes of blood are flown daily to Atlanta. The blood is not used until the green light is given from this facility. For more details on this, visit Kybloodcenter.org.

You might do a full blood donation, or donate specifically. Red blood cells, plasma, and platelets could be the most impactful donation you ever make. All types are of equal importance as not everyone can receive the same type. Your blood type is determined by your parents, and your blood types determines what blood type you can receive. O negative is considered universal and high demand. Anyone can be given this type. However, O negative can only receive O negative. AB positive recipient can receive red blood cells from all types.
For more in depth information visit the Blood Center’s website. You can also find other useful information on their website like medication deferral list and FAQs. You can also set up a blood donation appointment here as well. Frankfort, Somersett,and Pikeville are just a few brick and mortar locations accross the state that are open Monday through Saturday.

Where do blood drives happen?
KBC partner with businesses, and even high schoolers have a chance to slip out of class and donate. Your church could even partner with KBC. Lindsey reminds everyone it’s understandable getting a needle in the arm is not a pleasant experience. However,it is only a small inconvenience.
“Even with all the medical advances can not invent blood,” Lindsey notes, “Only donors.”
There are eight different blood types. Do you know yours and your children’s? The need could arise at a moments notice. Lindsey also makes the valid point blood transfusions can only be given if what’s needed is on the shelves where it’s needed.