Summer travel, holiday schedules and increased trauma cases underscore the need for donors to help maintain a stable blood supply
NEBRASKA – Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) is urging eligible donors to make plans to give blood before the Fourth of July holiday, a time when donations often decline while patient needs remain constant.
Summer months traditionally bring a drop in blood donations as people are traveling and adjusting their schedules around school breaks and seasonal activities. With holiday travel expected to increase in the coming weeks, the local blood supply may face additional strain.
Summer is notoriously known as “trauma season,” when hospitals typically see a rise in serious injuries, including car crashes and other emergencies requiring large volumes of blood. Trauma patients can require dozens, sometimes hundreds, of blood transfusions in a matter of hours, so maintaining a healthy blood inventory during this time is critical.
As a thank-you for helping strengthen the local blood supply, donors who come to give between June 26 and July 7 at a NCBB donor center or mobile blood drive will receive a limited-edition t-shirt, while supplies last.
“Summer is consistently one of the most challenging times of year to maintain a strong blood supply, especially around major holidays,” said Cheryl Warholoski, Executive Director at Nebraska Community Blood Bank. “As people travel and routines change, we often see fewer donors come forward. We’re encouraging eligible donors to schedule an appointment before the holiday to help ensure blood is available for patients whenever and wherever it’s needed.”
The donation effort is part of NCBB’s summer campaign, Be the Reason Summer Feels Brighter, which focuses on maintaining a stable blood supply throughout the challenging summer months. Learn about summer donation opportunities, donor promotions and locations at ncbb.org/reason.
Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. To view current eligibility guidelines or to make an appointment, visit ncbb.org or call 402.486.9414.
