Blood Bank of Delmarva Calls for Blood Donations Ahead of Summer Trauma Season
The summer months bring about significant challenges for the blood supply with school breaks, summer travel, and busy schedules making blood donation less of a priority
DELAWARE – Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) is calling on all eligible blood donors to make an appointment ahead of Memorial Day Weekend. The summer months are a difficult time for the blood supply, as school breaks, summer travel, and busy schedules make blood donation less of a priority leading to seasonal shortages. To thank donors, BBD will be giving away branded wet/dry bags to all who come to donate from May 21, 2025 to May 28, 2025.
Warmer months bring an increase in accidents and trauma-related injuries. Known as “trauma season,” late spring and summer see a rise in emergency room visits and transfusion needs. At the same time, blood donations typically decline due to travel, school breaks, and holiday schedules, creating a perfect storm for shortages, as nearly 25% of trauma patients require blood transfusions for treatment.
“Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer for many, but for Blood Bank of Delmarva, it signals the beginning of a critical period for the blood supply,” said Keith Heim, Vice President at Blood Bank of Delmarva. “We’re calling on all eligible blood donors to show up for their neighbors this summer by making an appointment to donate blood as we enter trauma season.”
To meet expected hospital demand, BBD is calling on additional businesses, schools, religious groups, and community organizations to step up and host drives this summer. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit delmarvablood.org or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.