Our Blood Institute continues emergency blood donation appeal

Our Blood Institute is continuing its emergency blood donation appeal as hospitals across Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas remain in need of a stable blood supply to support patient care. 

In recent days, the community has begun responding to the call for donations. While Our Blood Institute is grateful for those who have stepped up, blood inventory levels remain below what is needed to fully support trauma care, surgeries, cancer treatments and emergency response. 

Our Blood Institute remains in need of all blood types, especially type O-positive and O-negative, which are the first blood types used in emergency situations. 

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“Blood donation is not a one-time need during an emergency,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute. “It takes consistent donations to rebuild the blood supply and keep hospitals prepared. We are encouraged by the response so far, but the need remains urgent.” 

Blood is needed every day for patients facing life-threatening situations, including car accidents, complicated childbirths, chronic illnesses and major surgeries. Unlike many medical supplies, blood cannot be manufactured and must be donated by volunteer donors. 

Our Blood Institute urges all eligible donors to continue making appointments in the days and weeks ahead to help move the community out of this deficit and protect patients who depend on timely access to blood. 

Media Resources Available:

• Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute, as well as other Our Blood Institute representatives, are available for media interviews to discuss the ongoing emergency blood shortage and the continued need for blood donations.
• Our Blood Institute’s emergency marketing toolkit, which includes digital resources to support coverage of the ongoing blood shortage, is available at obi.org/emergency.

Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome.  

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.