FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

O Positive Blood Donors Urgently Needed Three Organ Transplants Scheduled Today

MARCH 07, 2000 — Puget Sound Blood Center officials urge all type O blood donors to give blood as soon as possible. Blood Center spokesman Keith Warnack said three organ transplants scheduled this afternoon at the University of Washington Medical Center will all require O positive blood.

"We began the week with a low supply of type O blood following a weekend that included an emergency C section, a serious stabbing and three organ transplants," Warnack said. "Having three organ transplants on the same day requiring the same type of blood will quickly bring the blood supply to emergency levels if we do not have a significant increase in blood donations today and tomorrow."

People are urged to call 1-800-398-7888 for information about the nearest donation center or blood drive. Due to the severity of the shortage, walk-in blood donors without donation appointments will be accommodated.

Donation centers in Bellevue, North Seattle, Everett and Tukwila will be open until 8 p.m. today.

Information may also be found on the Blood Center website at www.psbc.org.

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