FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Puget Sound Blood Center Thanks Donors During Celebration of National Blood Donor Month

JANUARY, 3 2008, SEATTLE — Throughout the month of January, Puget Sound Blood Center and blood transfusion recipients across Western Washington recognize and thank blood donors through the annual celebration of National Blood Donor Month.

Each year, more than 4.5 million patients need blood transfusions in the U.S. according to a recent study by W. Riley (et al) published in the July 2007 issue of Transfusion. Only 37 percent of the population is eligible to give blood, however less than 10 percent of the eligible population actually gives annually.

Holidays, busy travel schedules, inclement weather and illness all combine to make the winter months a time when blood is often in short supply. This year is no exception as the local blood supply in Western Washington is experiencing a shortfall that could become critical if action is not taken. Because of this, Puget Sound Blood Center would like to challenge the community to make a New Year’s resolution in 2008 that is easy to keep: donate blood.

And there is no better time to start than during National Blood Donor Month. Puget Sound Blood Center is asking all eligible blood donors to schedule an appointment to donate blood this month and throughout 2008. As blood usage increases, it is becoming more critical that people become regular blood donors; one who gives two to three times a year.

“If it weren’t for the generosity of local blood donors, people with disorders such as Thalassemia and Sickle Cell would not live a productive life,” states Richard B. Counts, M.D., president and CEO of the Blood Center. “Many more are alive today because there was blood on the shelf when they needed it after an accident or emergency surgical procedure. Puget Sound Blood Center would like to thank those who have continued to support the cause, and ask those who have not previously donated, to start a new habit in 2008: giving the gift of life by becoming a regular blood donor.”

To be eligible to donate blood you must be 16 years of age, at least 110 pounds and in general good health. For more information about donating, please visit www.psbc.org or call 1-800-398-7888.

About Puget Sound Blood Center
Puget Sound Blood Center is an independent, community-based blood center with a long and unique tradition of blending community volunteerism, medical science and research to improve patients’ lives. Patients with leukemia, cancer, burns, hemophilia and traumatic injuries depend on the breakthrough discoveries made by Blood Center scientists. Internationally recognized as a leader in transfusion medicine, the Blood Center operates the world's largest transfusion service, serves patients in more that 70 hospitals and clinics in 14 Western Washington counties and provides tissue and transplantation support to 185 hospitals across the Northwest.

If you have any questions please contact Michael Young at 206-292-6589 or pager 206-540-6189.

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