Red Cross says blood supply has rebounded, another surge ahead

PHOENIX — Blood supply in the Phoenix area has rebounded, according to the Red Cross, after more than 100 blood drives were canceled in Arizona because of the COVID-19 outbreak. 

But, despite the coronavirus pandemic, is not the time to stop rolling up your sleeve and stop donating blood. 

"We're kind of on this rollercoaster right now of collecting blood and having blood available. But we know there is going to be another big surge," said Colin Williams, regional communications officer for the Red Cross.

According to Williams, that big surge is expected as trauma and elective surgeries increase as society reopens. 

"So that is why it is vitally important for people to schedule an appointment online,” Williams said.

To do that go to redcrossblood.org and type in your zip code. You can also use the Red Cross donor app. 

Upon arrival, you will have your temperature taken, see enhanced disinfecting and be required to practice social distancing. 

You may also be handed a mask. 

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Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey said giving blood is considered an essential activity under the state's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected" executive order.

"American Red Cross has done everything we possibly can to protect our employees and to protect the donating public," Williams said.

Rus Smith showed up to the Tanger Outlet in Glendale to donate.

The former state trooper’s personal story highlights the importance of giving.

"A bad motor vehicle stop ended my career eight years and change into it,” Smith said. “I got shot up on a motor vehicle stop at night. And just a way to give back."

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Banner Health is also partnering with Vitalant to host blood drives in an effort to encourage donations and help restore supply. 

There are three upcoming blood donation events at Banner Health facilities in the West Valley: 

- Banner Estrella Medical Center (9201 W Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85037)

• Thursday, April 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Vitalant RV parked on west side of campus near main entrance

- Banner Boswell Medical Center (10401 W Thunderbird Blvd., Sun City, AZ 85351)

• Thursday, April 23, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Vitalant RV parked near south entrance

- Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center (14502 W Meeker Blvd, Sun City West, AZ 85375)

• Friday, April 24, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Vitalant RV parked near south entrance

RELATED: Red Cross experiences blood shortages during coronavirus outbreak