Minnesota’s blood supply running on fumes

Minnesota’s blood shelves are down to the dregs, and Memorial Blood Centers says we’ve officially hit the emergency zone – less than a two-day supply, when hospitals need seven just to breathe easy.

All blood types are in short supply, but O-negative and O-positive – the stuff you want on hand when someone’s bleeding out in an ER – are running dangerously low.

“We urgently need the community’s help to rebuild the blood supply and prevent this situation from becoming more dire,” said Kathy Geist, vice president at Memorial Blood Centers. “Donating blood is one of the most direct and impactful ways to support our healthcare system and save lives.”

The math is ugly. Summer means fewer donors – people on vacation, kids out of school, everyone hiding from the heat. Add a spike in trauma cases, and the cupboard’s bare.

“Every time you hear a siren or see a helicopter overhead, there’s a chance that patient will need blood,” Geist said. “We need to make sure it’s on the shelves before they ever get to the hospital.”

This isn’t just a Minnesota problem, but don’t expect anyone from out of state to ride in with a cooler. The fix is local, and it’s immediate.

“The availability of blood and blood products is vital for the safety and care of our patients, especially those who have suffered trauma, are undergoing highly invasive surgical procedures, or are being treated for certain malignancies,” said Alana Sutherland, technical advisor for transfusion services at Allina Health. “Blood is not manufactured. It is donated by generous people who are willing to help.”

“Every day in Minnesota, a child being treated for cancer needs a lifesaving transfusion,” said Dr. Andrea Watson, pediatric hematology and oncology at Essentia Health. “Give these children a future by donating blood today.”

Ask the families who’ve lived it.

“Red cell and platelet donations literally saved my daughter’s life,” said local mother Jena Mertz. “There is no substitute for the 180-plus blood donations she received, and she would not be here without blood donors.”

Stephanie and Jesse Wenker’s infant daughter, Sarah, is alive because of more than 90 transfusions.

“Blood donors are unsung heroes whose generosity truly saved our daughter’s life,” said Stephanie. “When her body was too sick to fight on its own, the kindness of strangers gave her strength and life. Our little girl is proof that every donation matters. We urge everyone to give if they can – it really is the gift of life.”

If you’re eligible, roll up your sleeve. Memorial Blood Centers is taking appointments at mbc.org or 888-448-3252. Blood donors can give every 56 days, platelet donors twice a month.

Because the next siren you hear might be for someone you know.

Howie is a longtime Duluth columnist. Reach him at howiehanson@gmail.com.