Helping your community during the Covid-19 Crisis
With many regular donors delaying giving to take final summer vacations and prepare for school to start, the American Red Cross continues to have an emergency need for blood and platelet donations to help end their summer blood shortage. Since so many of the places that typically help as donation centers are closed, this has also affected the amount of their blood donations.
While thousands of donors have rolled up a sleeve this summer, blood and platelet donations are not keeping pace with patient needs. More donations are urgently needed to replenish the blood supply and be prepared for patient emergencies.
1. The Red Cross supplies almost half the nation's blood supply. Gail McGovern, the CEO of the American Red Cross, said the need for blood donations is "constant," but that in particular, the last few months have led to an "unprecedented" disruption in the blood supply chain. "We supply 40% of the nation's blood," McGovern said. "And in order to do that, 13,000 people have to show up every single day."
2. There is an urgent need for blood donations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Generally, the Red Cross likes to maintain five days of inventory but at some points during the pandemic, the organization has been down to a two-day supply. In part, this is because so many blood drives are getting canceled because businesses, universities and churches are closed. This is where Digital Ignition has stepped in to help.
“As we all navigate these uncertain times, Digital Ignition is seeking ways that we can help our community,” said Joanne Sanders, General Manager of Digital Ignition. “We are excited that we have been selected as a designated donation center for the fall months to fill in this gap. Our centrally located coworking space in the heart of Alpharetta provides a spacious, clean environment where donors feel comfortable giving blood".
3. Currently all donations are being tested for COVID-19 antibodies. All donations are currently being screened for COVID-19 antibodies, which will provide insight into possible past exposure to the Coronavirus. Donors who test positive for COVID-19 antibodies may have the unique opportunity to help patients fighting the disease and public health officials benefit from the data that the American Red Cross will be collecting.
4. It is safe to donate blood. In order to make sure donors, staff, and volunteers stay healthy, the American Red Cross has implemented new protocols for all blood drives and choosing donation locations that provide a safe environment. They require that everyone wear a mask and have their temperature taken. The beds are social distanced at least six feet away and are wiped down after every single donation. The donors are asked to use hand sanitizer before, during and after the donation.
“Given our large office space, daily cleaning protocols, and experience as an essential business, our facility will supplement the American Red Cross' medical-level safety check of all participants,” continued Sanders.
5. Each donation can save up to three lives. According to the American Red Cross, one blood donation can save up to three lives. Less than 38% of the U.S. population is eligible to give blood, but someone needs blood in the U.S. every two seconds. Whether a patient receives whole blood, red cells, platelets or plasma, this lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries.
This is why it is crucial to have an established base of donors and a clean, centralized location where they feel comfortable and safe to give. Digital Ignition is proud to support the American Red Cross in providing a place where people can make a difference. To register for blood donations, visit the American Red Cross.