I had a not good, terrible first pregnancy that resulted in an emergency c-section at 29 weeks. Not to get too into the gory details, but I needed a blood transfusion during the surgery. Later, my itty bitty 2lb 4oz preemie needed several blood transfusions during his time in the NICU because itty bitty preemies often need to be “topped off” with extra blood because their bodies just can’t do all that they need to do to grow on their own. 

Seeing my son hooked up to tons of wires and tubes became pretty commonplace. It still shocked us the day we walked in to see him with an IV in his head, but apparently that’s also pretty common in the NICU.

Blood transfusions saved both of our lives. However, there is a critical nationwide shortage of blood and blood products happening right now. Here in our local community, Lane Regional is in need of community blood donors.  They’re hosting a blood drive today, January 29th, from 11-4 PM. 

There are some basic qualifications to donate. You must weigh at least 115 lbs, be feeling well and healthy, not be on antibiotics, and not be taking any deferral list medications. They will take your pulse, blood pressure and temp to make sure it's within range and ask a series of questions regarding travel and medications. There are few viruses that could prohibit donation, but for the most part it’s pretty easy. Also, you can't have any bleeding conditions, lung or heart conditions within the last 6 months or  have received a blood transfusion within the last year. You also can't donate when pregnant.

All those restrictions are in place to make sure that the blood supply stays safe for both donors and recipients, but don't let them scare you away. The BR area is currently undergoing blood shortage in this area. OLOL tells me that they particuarly need O+ and O-blood types, but anyone of any blood type can and should donate.

Remember, one donation can save possibly 3 lives! Also, if you have a loved one who is currently receiving transfusion services, donations can be made in their name to give them a $15 discount on their final bill. You just need to have the name and date of birth for the patient.