Blood supply low, needs a boost for the 4th

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky Blood Center says that, while summer is usually a time when donations fall in frequency, the upcoming holiday has them worried. Based on prior years, they say they’ll need to supply blood for over 700 transfusions over the upcoming holiday weekend.

“Blood must be on the shelves prior to the holiday in order to provide for those Kentucky patients who depend on blood transfusions,” said Martha Osborne, KBC’s Executive Director of Marketing and Recruitment, who added accidents and trauma frequently also add to the need during the holiday period. “Those who are eligible to give blood are urged to do so this week.”

To encourage donations this week, KBC is offering donors a $10 gift card as thanks, two movie passes to an area cinema, and anyone 18 or older will be entered to win a Toyota Camry.

Blood donors must be 17-years-old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo I.D. and meet additional requirements. Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, which can be found at kybloodcenter.org.