LifeServe Blood Center sends blood products to Maine following mass shooting

DES MOINES, Iowa — Following a mass shooting in Maine that killed 18 and injured 13 more, Des Moines’ LifeServe Blood Center is helping hospitals near the scene. 

LifeServe announced on Friday it sent nearly 50 blood products — including red blood cells and platelets —  to hospitals in and around Lewiston, Maine, to help those impacted by the mass shooting. 

“We did have team members here at LifeServe in communication with the hospital staff in Lewiston, and that number was based on the need that they requested. And so we had an initial shipment that went out. And then they actually called and asked for more,” Shay Willis, LifeServe’s director PR and marketing.

Willis emphasized the importance of community donations not just during times of crisis, but on a regular basis.

“I think this just drives the point home of the importance of that, because if we don’t have a safe and stable blood supply all the time, then when we come into these times of crisis, it becomes harder because the units aren’t there,” Willis said. 

As of Thursday night, shooting suspect Robert Card is still at large. 

If you’re interested in donating blood with LifeServe, click here to find the closest center near you. You can also call (800) 287-4903 to schedule an appointment. 

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