Blood Donations Dwindle, Knights of Columbus Seek to Encourage Donating

As the need for blood continues to grow, there seems to be a constant shortage as blood donations dwindle. Sunday, Aug. 4, LifeStream held a community blood drive at the Knights of Columbus, hoping to see a line of people eager to give a bit of their time and blood. That was not the case, as just two blood donations were made in the first couple of hours. LifeStream volunteers explain that the summer months see a sharp decrease in donations, partly due to summer vacations and the hot weather that accompanies this three-month break. Nevertheless, LifeStream is determined to continue their goal of saving lives one blood donation at a time. Registered Nurse and LifeStream staff member Desiree Salgado, RN, said they are doing all they can to bring people in, offering incentives such as gas cards, movie tickets, T-shirts, and Jack in the Box taco vouchers. While summer vacation for schools is nothing new, the steady decrease in blood supplies on hand can be attributed to other health factors. According to LifeStream staff member, Shelley Ordonio, LVN, hospitals have seen a sharp increase in cancer patients and treatments, which mean more blood donations are being used than ever before. For those interested in donating, Salgado said, “Start hydrating. Drink at least 64 ounces of water a day, starting a couple of days before. Make sure you’re eating very well. If [you] have issues with iron, eat Cream of Wheat, spinach and red meats.” For more information about LifeStream or making a donation call 1-800-879-4484 or visit their website, www.LStream.org.