By Tim Mastro

The Blood Bank of Delmarva is honoring donors, both old and new, during the 53rd annual National Blood Donor Month in January.

The bank said it remains committed to its mission to help save lives amid ongoing blood shortages. The current blood supply level stands at two to three days, below the ideal duration of five to seven.

Donations nationally have not returned to pre-pandemic amounts, according to the Blood Bank. Further, there has been an uptick in cancellations and missed appointments over the last month, it said, due to donors being ill or concerned about getting sick during the “tripledemic” of respiratory syncytial virus, flu and COVID-19.

“During these challenging times, it’s important that new, current and lapsed donors consider making an appointment to donate,” said Nicole Pineault, director of donor resources for the Blood Bank of Delmarva. “Every two seconds, someone is in need of blood. Patients rely on volunteer donors to help in their lifesaving treatments.”

Of the blood supply, 25% is used by those battling cancer, and roughly 1,800 units are given to pediatric patients across the country daily.

“In the weeks following the holiday season, maintaining a stable blood supply and building our inventory is critical,” Ms. Pineault said. “One donation can save up to three lives in the community.”

In the United States, 62% of the population is eligible to donate but just 3% does.

In celebration of National Blood Donor Month, all donors through Jan. 31 will be entered into weekly drawings for a chance to win an Apple or Google smartwatch.

To make an appointment, call 888-8-BLOOD-8 or visit delmarvablood.org.