By: Jessie Chrobocinski
The new year has finally graced us with its presence. Not much has changed, but our spirits seem more hopeful for more positive experiences this time around. From practicing being a better neighbor to recognizing our accomplishments, January is a beautiful time of year in which motivation and gratitude are in full swing. This month also serves to celebrate the lifesaving impact blood donors make to local healthcare—increasing awareness of the critical need for blood and recognizing those who have donated.
National Blood Donor Month offers everyone eligible the opportunity to help save lives and empower their local blood center to continue serving the community through the availability of a safe and robust blood supply. The Coastal Bend Blood Center covers 10 counties and 19 medical facilities in the Coastal Bend Region. As a proud partner in overseeing the Coastal Bend’s healthcare, the Center has continued to do its part to guarantee that our community’s blood needs are met.
“Blood is needed every day throughout our community. We rely on lifesaving blood donors to help us meet this demand,” says Coastal Bend Blood Center President and CEO Corey Survant.
Furthermore, if you’ve recovered from a verified COVID-19 diagnosis, plasma in your blood may contain virus antibodies that attack the novel coronavirus. Convalescent plasma is being evaluated as a treatment for those who have fallen ill from the virus.
“We are also in need of COVID convalescent plasma to help fight this pandemic. If your blood has positive antibodies, plasma portions of your blood will be used immediately to help COVID-19 patients. We urge our community to come together and donate. There is no better time than National Blood Donor Month.”
Blood donation appointments can be made by visiting coastalbendbloodcenter.org or calling 361-855-4943 to make an appointment or receive more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
