LIBERTY, Mo. — According to the Community Blood Center, someone needs blood every two seconds. That means blood centers around the nation need people donating around the clock.
Because of the winter storms that have hit the metro so far this year, blood donations have been slim.
"It is very difficult," Todd Schnoebelen, donor recruitment for Community Blood Center, said. "We are constantly facing the challenge of meeting the needs of our hospitals."
"Last Friday, half a dozen or more drives weren't able to go because of the weather," Schnoebelen, including drives at area high schools.
"Community Blood Center has to collect well more than 500 units a day," he said. "We just haven't been able to do that on certain days when the weather gets bad."
The shortage could eventually affect area hospitals.
"If we don't have the blood to give them to do their surgeries, they will put them off if they have to," John Fassnacht, collection supervisor for Community Blood Center, said.
Truman Medical Center said they have not been affected by the shortage.
St. Luke's said Monday they are covered, but if the shortage continues, there is a possibility that it could affect them.
"At the end of the day, you coming out is going to make a difference," Schnoebelen said. "It's going to give someone the gift of life that they need."
