This August Blood Bank of Alaska released a brand new public service announcement featuring television and film icon, William Shatner. Mr. Shatner responded to a request by Alaska’s community blood bank (Blood Bank of Alaska) to lend his voice and raise awareness about the importance of blood donations in Alaska. Currently there is a national blood shortage, due to various circumstances that are heightened by the summer activities and availability of donors. BBA is the only blood bank located in the state and serves as part of the emergency response network. They currently serve 21 hospitals to include military and Alaska Native facilities.
Link to public service announcement: https://youtu.be/GFbdLJbmBbA
“We were extremely honored that Mr. Shatner would take the time out of his schedule to support our organization,” said Robert Scanlon, BBA’s CEO. “He has a long history of working with non-profit organizations to further community causes. His generosity will hopefully make a big impact to raise the visibility of donating blood here in Alaska. ”
There is no substitute for blood when it is needed. Over 15,000 Alaskans donate blood each year to help fellow community members. Their generosity helps a range of patients from those fighting leukemia and other cancers to trauma victims and mothers that suffer complications during child birth. Approximately 700 donors must donate every week to maintain the blood supply in Alaska. Blood Bank of Alaska is proudly celebrating 56 years of service helping patients in need.
Call 907-222-5630 to schedule your appointment or visit bloodbankofalaska.org. Donors must be 16 years of age or older (16/17 years old require signed parental consent) to donate blood.