As we begin 2025, the Chattanooga area is experiencing a severe shortage of blood donors, a situation that affects patients needing blood transfusions daily. Blood transfusions are vital for saving the lives of accident victims, cancer patients, and others in critical need. Blood Assurance is urging the community to prioritize lifesaving donations this new year.
Donation centers will be open on New Year’s Day, allowing individuals to start the year with an act of kindness. Just one donation can potentially save up to three lives. “We’re encouraging everyone to make giving the gift of life one of their New Year’s resolutions,” stated Garry Allison, Senior Vice President of Operations for Blood Assurance. With critically low blood supply levels, particularly O-negative blood and AB plasma, now is an ideal time to commit to regular donations throughout the year.
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January is National Blood Donor Month, a period dedicated to recognizing the generosity of donors and raising awareness about the ongoing need for blood. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. requires blood. Blood Assurance, the primary supplier for hospitals in the Chattanooga area, needs over 540 donations daily. In honor of National Blood Donor Month, all donors in January will receive an exclusive ‘Save a Life’ long-sleeve tee as a token of appreciation.
Blood Assurance will offer $25 gift cards to O-negative donors throughout 2025 to acknowledge their essential role. O-negative is the universal blood type, making these donations especially critical in emergencies.
Those interested in donating can schedule a donation by visiting the Blood Assurance website to find a nearby donation center or blood drive, including locations open on New Year’s Day. Alternatively, individuals can call 800-962-0628 or text “BAGIVE” to 999777 to set up an appointment. Donors are encouraged to share their experience on social media, tagging Blood Assurance and using the hashtag #BAHero to inspire others to donate.
To donate, individuals must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in good health. It is advisable to drink plenty of fluids and eat a hearty meal before donating.
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