LifeStream Blood Bank calls on community for donations following mass shootings

In light of recent mass shootings around the country, LifeStream Blood Bank is reminding the public the importance of donating. Officials say the Coachella Valley is currently in a summer blood shortage, with less than a one-day blood supply on the shelf.

“If that type of shooting happened here, there might not be enough blood on the shelf available as a part of disaster preparedness to be able to help all the patients that would be admitted to the hospital,” said President and CEO of LifeStream Blood Bank, Dr. Rick Axelrod.

Sixteen blood donations were collected at LifeStream Monday, but those won’t be available for at least 48 hours. That blood has to be tested at a lab before it’s ready to be used.

A few donors News Channel 3 spoke with said that while they come in regularly, Monday’s appointments were made with specific intention. Tyler Stroh said he donates every six months.

“What you’ve seen on television is disturbing,” said Stroh. He said donating made him feel like he could do his part in helping those in need.

LifeStream announced that for every local blood donation collected through August 11, financial donations will be made to organizations in El Paso, Dayton, and Gilroy.

“It hurts for a second, but you can save several lives with one donation,” said donor Beth Caster.

Axelrod said while there may not be a need for an immediate response in the valley for a mass tragedy, there’s always a need for those facing daily emergencies or medical procedures.

“Please come in everyday so that those patients can be taken care of and their lives saved without any worry about the need for blood in our community,” said Axelrod.

To make an appointment to donate blood today, visit lifestream.org .