Blood Donations Desperately Needed During Summer Months

Arizona is in desperate need of blood donations. Your blood can save a life.

The week following July 4th is typically a time when blood donations are needed the most, according to Vitalant. It’s also a time when more people are on the roads, and this leads to more car crashes. The victims of many of these accidents rely on blood donations.

The state’s blood storage took a hit in early June and United Blood Services is still recovering.

David Rees has greatly benefited from blood donations.

“The oncologist there said, ‘yeah you have leukemia,’” Rees said. “‘If we don’t start treatment now you’ll have three to four weeks to live.’”

When he received the diagnosis, Rees was 26 years old and planning his wedding.

“I had to be very realistic and said, ‘I might not have another birthday, I might not have another Christmas,’” he said.

Rees is in remission after chemotherapy and more than a dozen blood transfusions. He is now happily married.

“I’m going to live life now because I can, because of blood donors,” he said.

All donations are needed, but the type in lowest supply is Type O blood.

Requirements for donating blood

• Be in good health.
• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Weigh at least 110 pounds
• Have eaten within two hours ahead of donation. Drink plenty of water the day of and 24-48 hours ahead of donating.
• Bring an ID.
• Must have 8 weeks between blood donations.
• Should not be under the influence of alcohol or recreational drug at the time of donation.

To donate, check out BloodHero.com to locate the nearest donation center.