Stopping the Blood Shortage, One Donation at a Time

ZANESVILLE, OH – The Red Cross has been facing a National Blood Shortage most of the summer, but there’s a chance for you to help those who need donations.

Dr. Rob Huff, a Family and Sports Medicine Physician at PrimeCare of Southeast Ohio, will be hosting a blood drive at his office, 751 Forest Ave, on Saturday October 10th from 9AM until 2PM.

Dr. Huff says this is a near and dear cause to him and he wants to help decrease the shortage in any way he can.

“Over 20 years ago, I had done this before, I helped to organize and sponsor a blood drive.” Dr. Huff said. “Just seeing the need over the summer, they try to keep around 5 to 7 days of inventory, which doesn’t seem like a lot. But that’s what their goal typically is and we’re down to about a day of inventory over the summer so they’re trying to build that back up. Just with the history, I felt the desire to sponsor another blood drive.”

All blood types are welcomed and encouraged to come out for the drive.

Dr. Huff says if you can’t make it to his blood drive but still want to donate, you can do so by heading to the Red Cross’ website and scheduling an appointment.

“If you have questions about eligibility, there’s a number for the Red Cross, you can call and make sure that any questions you have about eligibility they can answer for you.” Dr. Huff said. “But for the most part we just want more donors, as many donors as possible. About 3%, unfortunately, of eligible donors actually donate so we’re hoping to increase that number at least for that particular day.”

For more information on the Blood Drive, you can reach out to PrimeCare of Southeast Ohio.