LifeSouth Community Blood Centers Calls for Donors

Hospitals across Florida are in emergency need of blood and seeking support from LifeSouth, amidst a recent cyber-attack against another major blood supplier in the state. LifeSouth Community Blood Centers has not been affected by this attack; the nonprofit community blood bank is fully functional and urging all in the community to act by donating at a local donor center or blood drive near them.

LifeSouth is currently helping hospitals throughout the state, in addition to its network of hospital partners. Due to the current low supply of blood, LifeSouth urges the community to help make sure that blood is ready and available for patients. This blood aids trauma centers, pediatric hospitals, patients awaiting transplants, open heart surgeries and emergency medical services, to name a few.

All blood donors will receive a $20 e-gift card that can be redeemed at hundreds of retailers and restaurants. If a donor gives a double red cell donation or a platelet donation, they will receive a $40 e-gift card for their immense generosity. In addition to an e-gift card, donors will receive refreshments and a mini-physical including cholesterol, iron level, temperature, and blood pressure.

LifeSouth asks those who do not regularly donate, have not donated in a while or are first-time donors to make a point to do so now. Frequent blood donors are strongly encouraged to come in and bring a friend. All blood types are needed and accepted, especially type O and platelet donations.

For additional information about donation or to find a blood drive near you, call LifeSouth toll-free at 888-795-2707, visit www.lifesouth.org or download the LifeSouth app.

Appointments can also be made online. Donor centers across Gainesville are located at the below addresses, and information on mobile blood drives happening across the region can be found at www.lifesouth.org.