(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

Despite repeated requests, attempts at prize incentives — practically begging for potential donors to act — the American Red Cross is facing an even worse shortage than when it first raised the alarm in late spring.

In fact, there has been a sharp decline in donations, which led the blood supply to fall nearly 25% in June. Meanwhile, according to the organization, it is distributing nearly 3,500 units more per week than expected to hospitals. “Trauma season” has taken on a new dimension this year.

“A readily available blood supply serves as the backbone of modern medicine. Without it, lifesaving treatments and critical access points to care are not possible,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, medical director for the Red Cross. “Emergency departments, operating rooms, and labor and delivery units can’t support patients with the most urgent needs, and cancer patients must wait. We’re asking donors to give now before doctors are forced to make those difficult decisions.”

Upcoming local opportunities to give blood include: noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Friday, July 24 and 31 at the American Red Cross – Parkersburg, 3210 Dudley Ave.; 1:30-6 p.m. July 22 at Mineral Wells Baptist Church education building, 1569 Elizabeth Pike, Mineral Wells; noon to 6 p.m. July 27 at Fairlawn Baptist Church, 215 Fairlawn Drive, Parkersburg; and 1-6 p.m. July 30 at Grand Central Mall.

According to the Red Cross, someone in the U.S. receives a blood transfusion every TWO SECONDS. It could be you in need. It could be a member of your family. It could be anyone.

Find out more about how to help at RedCrossBlood.org. And then, please, if you are eligible and able, don’t hesitate.