Blood donations at critical levels

LifeStream Blood Bank, the provider of blood products and services to more than 80 Southern California hospitals, is experiencing a critically low blood supply.

Mayor John Valdivia recently put a message out to the community advising them the public of the need for blood donations.  In a video embedded in the Mayor’s plea, Dr. Rick Axelrod, CEO and Chief Medical Director for Lifestream, explained the situation.

“We are in desperate need of blood, we have less than a one day supply of most blood types on our shelves,” said Axelrod.  “As a result of the critical shortage of blood, surgeries may be cancelled and critically needed transfusions for cancer patients, those suffering from liver failure in need of dialysis and other essential services could be curtailed.”

The message continued, “San Bernardino is in dire need of more blood donations! If you are eligible, please take some time out of your week and help by donating your blood. With your donation, you can save the life of someone in need. Give back to our community, and donate blood.”

Those they want to donate should contact Lifestream to schedule an appointment by calling 800-879-4484 or they can schedule an appointment at lstream.org.

Blood donors must wear a mask or face covering (mask/coverings with one-way valves to filter outside air are not sufficient) and submit to a COVID-19 symptom review before being admitted to the donor waiting area.

All donors must be at least 15 years of age. A signed parental consent form is required for 15- and 16-year-olds. The form is available at all LifeStream locations. All donors must also weigh at least 115 pounds, present a current photo ID and be in good health.