Donate Blood in Shreveport, LA
In a busy world, finding ways to give back to your community can be a challenge. However, donating blood is a special thing you can do for the people around you. This life-giving act is easier than you might think and can make a huge difference in people’s lives. At LifeShare Blood Center, we help donors become community superheroes by giving a little of their time and their blood. Here’s what you need to know about donating blood.
Why Should You Donate Blood?
People across Shreveport need blood every day. Cancer patients, accident victims, heart patients, pregnant women, and babies are just a few examples of people who rely on blood and blood products.
At LifeShare, the blood we collect is kept within Shreveport communities. In rare instances, when there have been catastrophic events elsewhere, we share our resources with other locations. However, the majority of the time, the blood you donate stays right here, helping your neighbors, family members, and friends.
To keep up with local needs, we need the participation of people in the community. In order to meet the demand for blood, we have to collect 500 units every day.
Donate Blood in Shreveport, LA
We’ve been in operation since 1942. Over the decades, we have grown from a small operation created to support soldiers in WWII to a scientifically advanced blood collections, processing, and distribution organization. We have operated under a progression of names most recently becoming LifeShare Blood Center in 1996.
With a wide presence in Louisiana, East Texas, and South Arkansas, and regular mobile blood drives, we make it as easy as possible for you to donate blood. No medical technology has ever replaced human blood, so our donors are able to give something to the Shreveport community that even the most advanced medical science can’t replicate.
Donation Blood Types
There are multiple kinds of blood donation. Here’s a look at the main types.
Whole Blood Donation
This is the traditional donation that most people picture. One pint of blood is collected, and the entire process takes less than 45 minutes to complete. Donors are allowed to repeat the donation after 56 days.
Apheresis Donation
This process allows a donor to give specific components of their blood. Blood is removed and a machine is used to select one component (red cells, platelets, or plasma) and the rest of the blood is then returned to the donor.
This process ensures that you’re able to provide exactly what blood component is most needed at the time. Apheresis donations take a little more time to complete, and as you wait, you’re able to relax and read, watch TV, or pass the time on your phone.
Therapeutic Donation
Some people have a medical condition that requires them to donate blood regularly to stay healthy. With a doctor’s referral, we can perform these collections.
Donate Blood Today at LifeShare Blood Center in Shreveport, LA
Please visit us at LifeShare Blood Center in Shreveport, LA. Our compassionate, expert staff will make your donation experience quick and comfortable. You can enjoy knowing you’ve done a great thing for your friends and neighbors. For more information, please contact us today! Click below to schedule your next blood donation in Shreveport!
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