Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, but supplies in Tennessee are critically low ahead of the holiday. That’s why Blood Assurance is urging people to donate before their celebrations, and help save lives in this community.

Blood Assurance is a nonprofit blood center that is the primary supplier for most of the hospitals in Middle Tennessee, and it is the secondary supplier for the remainder. 540 volunteer blood donors are needed every day to maintain a healthy supply!

The holiday season often brings a surge in demand for blood products due to increased trauma cases and medical emergencies.

“Our greatest needs right now are O-negative, AB plasma, and platelet donors,” said Garry Allison, Senior Vice President of Operations at Blood Assurance. “By donating, you can give the ultimate gifts this holiday season: the gifts of life, hope, and healing for local patients in need.”  

Why donations matter:

•        O-negative blood: The universal blood type, vital in emergencies when a patient’s blood type is unknown.

•        AB plasma: Universal plasma, essential for trauma patients, burn victims, and those needing massive transfusions. Less than 4% of the population has this rare type, making it incredibly valuable.

•        Platelets: Critical for cancer patients, surgical procedures, and those with clotting disorders, platelets are in constant demand but have a short shelf life of only five days. 

Special holiday incentives for donors:

•        Donate by Dec. 31 to receive a $25 e-gift card.

•        O-negative donors who give double red cells will receive a $40 e-gift card.

Tullahoma residents can schedule an appointment at the Blood Assurance at 604 N. Jackson St. near Walgreens by calling 931- 461-5773. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. Schedule an appointment and make a donation by visiting www.bloodassurance.org/schedule, calling 800-962-0628, or texting BAGIVE to 999777. 

Who can donate:

•        Anyone at least 17-years-old (16 with parental consent)

•        Weigh 110 pounds or more

•        In good health

Remember to drink plenty of fluids and eat a hearty meal before donating. 

Be a hero this holiday season

This holiday season, be the hero someone needs. Act now and give the greatest gift of all—the gift of life. 

About Blood Assurance

Blood Assurance is a nonprofit, full-service regional blood center serving more than 70 health care facilities in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky and North Carolina. Founded in 1972 as a joint effort of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society, the Chattanooga Area Hospital Council and the Chattanooga Jaycees, the mission of Blood Assurance is to provide a safe and adequate supply of blood and blood components to every area patient in need.