Urgent Call for O-Positive and O-Negative Blood Donors in San Antonio

The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center has issued an urgent appeal for donors with blood types O-negative and O-positive to help replenish supplies in hospitals across San Antonio. The center is collaborating with community partners to organize multiple blood drives aimed at increasing donor participation during this critical time.

Community Response to Blood Shortage

As hospitals face a pressing need for blood, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is taking proactive measures to ensure donor safety. Individuals are encouraged to wear face coverings and will undergo a health screening upon arrival at blood donation sites. On February 14, 2024, pre-registered donors began lining up at the MacArthur Park Church of Christ, where the first blood drive of the day was held.

Gretchen Young, one of the first donors to arrive, expressed her confidence in the safety protocols. “I was asked how I feel when I came in. Everything’s been sanitized in front of me so I feel like it’s very safe and probably more secure than prior to COVID-19,” she stated.

According to Roger Ruiz, a corporate communications specialist at the center, maintaining rigorous sanitation practices is essential. Each piece of equipment is sanitized between appointments to ensure the safety of both donors and staff. With approximately 120 people registered for the Sunday blood drive, these measures are crucial for public confidence.

Incentives for Donors

To further encourage participation, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is offering incentives such as HEB gift cards and car wash vouchers. Ruiz highlighted the importance of these community drives, stating, “We make sure that we can maintain social distancing and that you have a safe donation process.” He also emphasized the urgent need for donors, indicating that the center relies heavily on the willingness of registered donors to show up.

“We need a 100% to show up because that’s all that we’re collecting in the community right now,” Ruiz said. “Patients need our help. There are always accidents and different kinds of treatments going on.”

Young, a dedicated donor, shared her personal motivation. “My son, who is 14, was in the NICU when he was born. Since then, I’ve regularly donated blood. So, I guess COVID-19 really isn’t scaring me away,” she remarked.

The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center serves 48 counties and supplies numerous hospitals and clinics within this extensive region. Looking ahead, they plan to organize additional blood drives, inviting businesses and organizations with suitable venues to participate. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the center at 210-731-5590.

As the need for blood remains critical, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is counting on the community’s support to ensure that hospitals have the necessary resources to care for patients in need. The ongoing commitment from donors like Young can make a significant difference in saving lives.