UBS: Seeking blood donors after T.S. Gordon

(The following is a press release from United Blood Services.)

HATTIESBURG, MS (September 5, 2018)—Cautious measures in preparation of Tropical Storm Gordon’s landfall in Mississippi resulted in the cancellation of several blood drives and the adjustment of the donor center operating hours. These cancellations have resulted in a loss of over 120 pints of blood. United Blood Services is asking for the community’s help in recovering from this loss. Donors of all blood types are asked to donate as soon as possible.

“This storm coming on the heels of Labor Day has brought a continued decline in donations, which started this past Friday as a result of holiday plans and travel,” said Mitzi Breaux, Marketing and Communications Manager for United Blood Services. “We are asking for the help of old and new blood donors alike to help ensure that blood is available in all blood types.”

United Blood Services in Hattiesburg, located at 805 S. 28th Avenue, will be open today, Wednesday, September 5 from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. As of now, normal operating hours will resume on Friday, September 7 on which the donor center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Appointments can be made at bloodhero.com or by calling 877-827-4376. Walk-ins are welcome.

Blood donation takes about an hour from check-in to refreshments. Donors can save about 20 minutes by completing their Fast Track Health History the day they donate. It’s at www.UnitedBloodServices.org.

Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 and 17 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian. Donors receive a free cholesterol test.