Demands for donated blood go up

  • Published
  • By W. Eugene Barnett Jr.
  • 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The primary mission for the Armed Services Blood Program is to spread the word that the blood donor program is here at the Wright-Patt Medical Center.

“Summertime is a period when blood donation needs go up because of increased accidents and compounding the blood shortage during these months are PCS (permanent change of station) moves and vacations for donors,” said Nikki Edwards, technician in the center.

The 88 Medical Group Blood Donor Center is located on the second floor, clinic side right across from the Women’s Health office, Wright-Patterson Medical Center in Area A.

“The shelf life for blood is only 42 days and regular donors need to wait 56 days before donating again. There is always a great need to find new donors of all blood types and especially during the summer months because quotas cannot be met during this time period,” said Edwards.

Anyone who has access to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is eligible to donate blood, including civilian retirees and veterans.

“Restrictions are listed on the militaryblood.dod.mil/donors website and even if you think you have a deferral, come into the center and let the professionals assess you and give you the correct answer,” said Edwards.

“One new incentive is a Pint for Pint. Baskin Robbins has donated coupons for $3 off a cake, $1 off a frozen drink or one pint of ice cream for each pint of donated blood. The coupons are available to any donor who gives blood at the center,” said Edwards.

There are mobile blood drives available at various locations at Wright-Patt.

Hours for the center are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Walk-ins are welcome and it only takes 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. Some organizations will give you 59 minutes to come over to the center and donate.

For additional information or questions regarding blood donations, call Armed Service Blood Program, Wright-Patterson Blood Donor Center at 937-257-0580 or visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil and Facebook.com/WrightPattBlood.