United Blood Services has an urgent appeal for type O-positive and O-negative blood.

Lesli Asay, Regional Donor Recruitment Director of United Blood Services, this area’s non-profit community blood provider was has stated:

“We typically see an increase in the need for blood during the summer. That, coupled with our recent cut-over to a new computer system, when we were very limited by the amount of blood we could collect, has caused us to have a very low supply of type O blood. Every 2-to-3 seconds in this country, someone needs blood. And you never know when you or someone you love will be the one. We all expect blood to be available when we need it, but only a few of those who can give, actually roll up their sleeves. It’s time for everyone to get involved!”

O-Positive is the most common blood type, so it is needed the most often by patients. O-negative is the universal blood type, meaning it can be used by patients of all other blood types and is most often used in emergency situations and for premature babies.

Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian.

Asay said there is a particular need for donations of red blood cells and platelets at this time.

United Blood Services is asking for all eligible Casper donors to please donate blood this week at United Blood Services located at 2801 East 2nd Street (in front of Hobby Lobby). Please call (307) 237-2328 to schedule an appointment today. Walk-ins are welcome.

Hours are as follows:

Monday: 10am - 6pm

Wednesday: 10am - 6pm

Friday: 6am - 2pm

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