Ventura, CA. – Blood donors with rare blood types, such as O-Negative and A-Negative, are seriously needed to meet rising needs. United Blood Services is issuing a critical appeal for donors with these rare Rh negative blood types. This is a worsening situation as demand is very high for these two blood types, while the number of people that have these types is very few.

The blood center is especially seeking new donors, that perhaps don’t know their blood type, in an effort to identify more donors with these rare types. Those who have never donated are especially encouraged to come forward. One of the great extras to saving a life, is that donors learn their blood type!

This month also is recognized as National Blood Donor Month. Donations of all types are encouraged, however those with Type O- and A- are critically needed. Blood donors will not only save lives, but will be automatically entered in a drawing for a vacation getaway to Las Vegas! The grand prize Las Vegas package includes round trip air faire for two on Allegiant, two nights deluxe accommodations at the J.W. Marriott Resort and Spa, dinner for two and tickets to see Penn and Teller! All volunteer blood donors in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties, who are age 21 and over, and give through February 13th, will be automatically entered to win. A second-place prize will be also awarded to a randomly selected donor for two round trip air tickets anywhere Allegiant flies.

Type O-Negative blood is found in just 7% of the population. Known as the “universal donor” this blood type can be transfused to anyone. It is often transfused in emergency and trauma situations, when there is little time to “type” a patient’s blood Patients often need multiple units, in some cases hundreds of units.

Likewise, a mere 6% of the population has Type A-Negative blood. As it can be safely transfused to any patient with Type A or AB blood (both positive and negative) it too is often needed. And again multiple units may be needed by any one patient.

Donations may be made at the UBS Center in Ventura at 2223 Eastman near McGrath. Visit www.Blood4Life.org for a list of blood drives in the area. Appointments are appreciated, but not necessary. Walk-ins are also welcome, and will be honored as our appointment schedule allows.

The Ventura Center hours are:
Monday and Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Pizza served 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday)
Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

You may donate blood if you are over age 16, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger. Donors are asked to make an appointment by contacting United Blood Services at 800-715-3699 or online at www.Blood4Life.org. Just click on “Donate Blood” and type in your zip code to find a list of drives nearby.