Special to The Leader

More blood donors are needed now to increase the blood supply, which remains at a level estimated to last only two days. Blood donations of all types are being used daily by patients. In order to continue to meet patient needs and stabilize the supply, LifeShare reports that at least 900 blood donors in the Beaumont area this week.

“If the blood supply is not stable, not only does it put everyone in the community at risk in times of disaster and unforeseen accidents, but it causes delays in needed surgeries, and jeopardizes the abilities for cancer patients those with blood disorders to continue treatment. It takes more than 24 hours after donation to test and prepare the blood for patient use, and there is no other source for the blood that is needed. If more people don’t give it won’t be there when they need it,” says Tina Hooper, Executive Director, Marketing and Communications for LifeShare Blood Centers.

Anyone 16 years of age or older may go to LifeShare at 4305 Laurel Street in Beaumont to donate, or visit lifeshare.org to find a blood drive.