Urgent Need for Blood Donations: Join a Norman Regional Blood Drive This February

Norman Regional and Our Blood Institute are calling on our community to help save lives by donating blood at one of two upcoming blood drives. With an ongoing emergency blood shortage, your donation can make a critical difference.

Blood Drive Details:

• Porter Health Village: Tuesday, February 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Education Center)
  • Schedule your appointment here
• Norman Regional Hospital: Thursday, February 27, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Healer Garden)
  • Schedule your appointment here

Walk-ins are welcome, but scheduling an appointment online is encouraged to help streamline the process. You can also schedule your appointment over the phone by calling 877-340-8777.

Why Your Blood Donation Matters More Than Ever

This winter, severe weather, widespread illness and work-from-home policies have significantly disrupted blood collections, leading to critically low inventory levels. Hospitals rely on a steady blood supply to treat trauma patients, perform surgeries and support cancer treatments. However, more blood is being used than donated, creating an urgent need.

The Impact of This Blood Shortage:

• Flu Season & Illness: One of the worst flu seasons in 15 years has led to a drop in donor turnout, with flu-related doctor visits surpassing past peaks. Many potential donors are sick or staying home.
• Canceled Blood Drives: Impending winter weather may lead to school and corporate blood drive cancellations, further reducing collections.
• Missed Appointments: More donors are working remotely or recovering from illness, leading to a surge in missed donation appointments.
• Short Shelf Life of Blood Products: Platelets, which are essential for cancer treatments and trauma care, last only five days, making consistent donations vital.
• No National Backup Supply: Blood centers across the country are also struggling with shortages, meaning there’s no reserve supply to replenish what our hospitals need.

Your Blood Donation Saves Lives

Blood donations help patients in emergency situations, surgeries, childbirth and cancer treatments. A single donation can help up to three people, and there is no substitute for donated blood. Without immediate action, hospitals may face critical shortages.

Donor Rewards

As a thank-you, successful donors will receive a superhero-themed T-shirt. Those donating at an Our Blood Institute (OBI) donor center will also receive a special kid-sized donor T-shirt—a great way to encourage young future donors!

Every drop counts. Join us and be a hero to those in need.