GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - The Michigan Community Blood Centers organization is changing its name, but not its focus.
It will now be known as Michigan Blood.
Giving blood is something you can do for free. So you wouldn't think blood donations would be hurt by the economy. But, Michigan Blood says it is feeling a financial pinch.
Tim Strickler says, "I have my little book and I try to get in every 8 weeks." Dedicated donors like Tim Strickler are the lifeblood of blood donation centers. They give as often as possible.
Michigan Blood President and CEO Bill Rietscha says, "Our sole purpose is to provide blood products and services that save lives at dozens of hospitals throughout our state."
The new name, Michigan Blood, is meant to emphasize the life saving importance.
But, right now, Rietscha says the economy is affecting donations, especially at mobile blood drives held at businesses. Rietscha says, "What we've seen with the economic changes is first of all, fewer people employed. And secondly a reluctance on the part of some employers to kind of let us in when they are trying to pinch every penny. So, it has effect our blood collection somewhat from those organizations."
So, blood donation organizations rely even more on people like Strickler, who realize how many people they can help. He says, "My mother had a mitrovalve replacement surgery in 1974 and she needed 5 units of blood. And I have friends who have had leukemia who have needed lots and lot of blood products. It's just something I feel I can do to help other folks."
Only about 3% of the population gives blood.
WZZM 13 also spoke to the American Red Cross. A representative says that organization is also having trouble collecting enough blood because of unemployment and fewer business blood drives.
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