Marsh Regional Blood Center is in urgent need of type O-negative blood!
The center, which supplies blood to all Ballad Health hospitals, is at “system alert” level for the current O-negative supply, which means at this point it is not able to supply the hospitals with the blood orders they’ve requested. Patients in Ballad Health hospitals, all regional cancer centers and those needing in-flight transfusions depend on the generous hearts of donors in our region.
All eligible donors – including Ballad Health team members – are encouraged to make a blood donation before the supply gets any lower, with an emphasis on the critical need for O-negative donors as soon as possible.
“O-negative blood is extremely important because it can be transfused to anyone, regardless of their blood type,” said Evan Kulbacki, MD, medical director for Marsh Regional. “Because it is universal, it’s what hospitals use in trauma cases, and it is carried on rescue aircraft for in-flight transfusion, if necessary.
“Keeping a good supply of O-negative blood on hand is crucial, so we desperately need help from donors throughout the community. Having the appropriate blood types on hand in emergency situations can mean the difference between life and death.”
All donors will be given a long-sleeve T-shirt and a snack.
Where to give
Marsh donor centers are located at:
- Bristol – 1996 W. State St., 423-652-0014
- Johnson City – 2428 Knob Creek Road, 423-282-7090
- Kingsport – 111 W. Stone Drive, 423-408-7500
Appointments are preferred for in-center donations and can be made by calling the respective donor centers, but walk-ins are welcome.
Additionally, a schedule of upcoming mobile drives taking place across the Appalachian Highlands is available at marshblood.com/events.
