Nathan Stubbs

Blood drive targets football fans

by Nathan Stubbs

Following Hurricane Gustav and Ike, United Blood Services says it is going to take weeks of steady donations to recover its area blood supply. More than 500 pints of blood are needed each month to supply the 62 South Louisiana hospitals served by United Blood Services. This week, UBS is appealing to south Louisiana football fans with a promotion for new blood donations. Fans who donate blood between September 15th and September 20th will receive a Saints, ULL or LSU t-shirt and will be automatically registered to win a pair of tickets for a Saints or LSU game and tailgating packages.

"All 28 parishes served by United Blood Services were affected by Hurricane Gustav,” says Joni David, UBS’ Donor Recruitment Manager. “Our focus has now turned to replenishing our local blood supply. The drive cancellations, and extensive damage throughout the state have had tremendous affect on our local blood supply. With the public’s help, we will be able to meet the needs of local hospital patients."

For more information, visit unitedbloodservices.org or call 235-5433.