Blood donors embody the best of who Oklahomans are, giving selflessly so the state can rise and recover together. Fourteen Allen area residents volunteered to give to this cause Tuesday when the Bloodmobile came to town; twelve were able to donate.

Blood donors give more than a quarter-of-a-million units of blood annually to provide a safe and adequate blood supply.

COVID-19 has taken a tremendous toll on the blood supply. In fact, this pandemic has proven to be the greatest challenge to Oklahoma’s blood supply that Oklahoma Blood Institute has ever seen. OBI is recognizing donors who have given convalescent plasma as part of an experimental initiative to use the product to treat patients suffering severe symptoms of COVID-19.

Oklahoma Blood Institute is collecting convalescent plasma from recovered COVID-19 and coronavirus patients, as part of an experimental initiative to transfuse the plasma to those suffering severe symptoms of this virus. By creating the only statewide registry of available patients, Oklahoma Blood Institute can ensure local patients receive the donated products and have the best possible chance at fighting the illness.

As hospitals move forward with more surgeries and critical treatments, Oklahoma Blood Institute has an immediate need for eligible blood donors. Children with cancer can’t wait for treatment. Trauma patients can’t wait for a transfusion.

Healthy donors are urged to give blood, and appointments are strongly encouraged to allow for recommended social distancing. Donations are accepted at the Ada location Mondays through Thursdays from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, and on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. To schedule an appointment call (580) 436-0384.