An Appointment Only Blood Drive This Friday in Eureka (C’mon, Humans, Here’s a Way to Help)

Melissa Martel, who said she donates fairly regularly, squeezes a stress ball to help blood flow for her donation at event in January of 2019. [Photo by Mark McKenna]

The North Coast and all of California is facing an urgent situation as hundreds of blood drives have been canceled due to the coronavirus.

In Humboldt County, most of the community blood drives have been cancelled due to the virus and this challenging trend will likely continue into May.

That’s why Assemblymember Jim Wood and Senator Mike McGuire teamed up with the Northern California Community Blood Bank for a critical blood drive this Friday in Eureka.

“There is an urgent need to replenish blood supplies during these challenging times with the coronavirus and we hope folks will join us this Friday to help neighbors in need,” Senator Mike McGuire said. “Assemblymember Wood and I are grateful for the support thus far and we look forward to seeing you at the blood bank at the end of the week.”

The blood drive will be held this Friday, April 3 at the Northern California Community Blood Bank building, 2524 Harrison Avenue in Eureka. All blood donations are by appointment only, rather than walk-up.

“I know how much people want to help, and they just may not know what do,” said Assemblymember Wood. “Donating blood is a truly meaningful way to make a difference.”

It is completely safe to donate blood at this time. Blood bank staff follow rigorous safety and disinfection protocols at blood drives – and they will be taking temperatures before donors give blood. Blood drives are considered an essential service.

Almost everyone can donate blood. You can check here to see if you are eligible. You can get additional information about the coronavirus and donating blood here.

Currently, all blood types and components are needed, especially type O blood donations. Type O-negative blood is the universal blood type: ER doctors reach for it first to help stabilize patients before their blood type is known.

“Even during these challenging times, the need for a steady, dependable blood supply does not go away.  We are grateful for the support of Senator McGuire and Assemblymember Wood in advocating for blood donations and helping to ensure that we are able to serve the needs of local hospital patients,” said Kate Witthaus, Chief Executive Officer, Northern California Community Blood Bank.