FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Area Blood Supply Still at Critical Levels

JANUARY 17, 2007, SEATTLE — The region’s blood supply is still at critical levels and faces challenges with the Vancouver and Longview areas experiencing heavy snow and ice. Puget Sound Blood Center experienced several blood drive cancellations after yesterday morning’s snowfall. Many donors were also unable to make their appointments to donate. The Blood Center yesterday also received and filled a greater than average number of orders.

With volunteers receiving the message to donate, the Blood Center anticipates the blood supply to return to normal levels by early next week.

Puget Sound Blood Center serves patients and over 70 medical facilities throughout Western Washington, from Bellingham to Vancouver, Washington. Puget Sound Blood Center and Cascade Regional Blood Services of Pierce County are asking volunteers who can safely donate to visit our donor centers or blood drives as soon as possible.

Any coverage of the situation is greatly appreciated and vital to area patients.

Appointments to donate blood can be made by calling 800-398-7888 or by visiting www.psbc.org. The Web page also lists donor center addresses and hours as well as blood drive locations and hours.

Please call or page Tom Butterworth if you have any questions.

Puget Sound Blood Center operates nine donor centers located in Western Washington:

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