Donors urged to give immediately

Oklahoma Blood Institute has less than half of the blood supply needed, threatening a critical blood shortage for local patients, and creating an immediate need for blood donors.

The national blood supply has stayed near emergency levels for months, having never recovered from COVID-related challenges. Oklahoma’s supply has faced similar challenges, as well as blood drive cancellations after multiple winter weather events in February and March. Hospital demand has surged past pre-pandemic levels, exacerbating the issues caused by lower donation levels.

“All indicators are pointing us in a dangerous direction,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “Over the last several weeks donation numbers have dipped, which have left us struggling to keep stock levels necessary to protect our community. We need donors to respond immediately to help friends and neighbors using blood.”

In response to the current situation, Oklahoma Blood Institute has extended its donor room hours to expand giving opportunities:

· Monday-Friday:

· 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 · Saturday:

· 7:30 a.m. – 4:00

Donors can find locations to donate at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777.

“Nationally, we’ve not faced an ongoing blood shortage like this before,” Armitage said. “The pandemic created this crisis, and we are still caught with its damaging hangover effects. While the challenge is immense, so is the support of our donors, blood drive sponsors, and partners. Together, we must and will find a way.”

Oklahoma Blood Institute is the sixth-largest independent blood center in the nation, providing more than 90% of Oklahoma’s blood supply to over 160 hospitals and medical facilities. For more information, visit obi.org.

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.