PHOENIX — Blood is urgently needed due to winter weather and the cold and flu season, according to Vitalant (formerly United Blood Services).
The combination of severe winter storms as well as cold and flu season being “in full swing” is hitting blood centers particularly hard.
“We typically see a drop in donations around this time of year because people are not only recovering from the holidays, many are also suffering from the flu and other illnesses,” said Sid Lewis, Sr. Director of Donor Recruitment for Vitalant’s Southwest Division. “Add bad weather to the mix and it makes it extremely difficult to maintain an adequate blood supply for patients who need it.”
Vitalant representatives say there’s critical need for platelets and type O blood donation; however, all blood types are needed.
Vitalant has extended its hours at six Valley locations through January 28.
Blood Drive Daily Valley Locations
Chandler Donor Center: 1989 W. Elliot Rd., #33 (Elliot & Dobson)
Glendale Donor Center: 18583 N. 59th Ave., #113 (59th Ave. & Union Hills)
Goodyear Donor Center: 14270 W. Indian School Rd., #C-8 (Indian School & Litchfield)
Mesa Donor Center: 1337 S. Gilbert Rd., #101 (Gilbert & Hampton)
Phoenix Donor Center: 5757 N. Black Canyon Hwy. (Bethany Home Rd. & I-17)
Scottsdale Donor Center: 15170 N. Hayden Rd., #6 (Hayden & 83rd Pl.)
To schedule an appointment, go to BloodHero.com or call 877-258-4825 (877-25-VITAL). You can also walk in for an appointment.
