Summer fun can bring summer trauma
7/18/2022
During spring and summer, people are often more active. They travel more, and they spend more time outside. But as the activity level increases, so do the risk of trauma and the need for a consistent blood supply.
At Mayo Clinic, the number of trauma cases and incidents spikes during the warmer months. Maintaining a stable blood supply in preparation for this spike is essential. Trauma cases can arise in an instant, and the story of Mary, a Mayo Clinic patient, shows the importance of having blood products available.
Mary's story.
Mary found herself fighting for her life while spending a day on the lake, after being struck by a boat that did not see her. The injuries Mary sustained caused substantial amounts of blood loss, and those around her had to act quickly. While on a Mayo One flight, she began to receive blood transfusions. All Mayo One helicopters are equipped with blood products that come from within the community and are an essential part of the local blood inventory.
After undergoing surgery, Mary was able to leave the hospital 12 days later. She had received 20 units of blood. Mayo Clinic is thankful that Mary's family, first responders and the Mayo team were able to save her life through their quick action and work.
Mary's story is a great reminder that life can change in an instant, and it's important to be prepared. About 40% of those who come to the Mayo Clinic and need blood are trauma patients. When donors come into the blood donor center, they do not know how or when their blood products will be used. But they know that when they give, others live.
The Mayo Clinic Blood Donor Program is responsible for all blood donations within Olmsted County, and it relies heavily on the blood products the community provides. Maintaining the blood supply takes around 100 donors per day, and it is essential in ensuring blood products are available to Mayo Clinic patients like Mary.
Contact the Mayo Clinic Blood Donor Program at 507-284-4475 or by email to schedule your lifesaving appointment today.
Mayo Clinic Blood donor centers are at these locations:
Hilton Building, First Floor
Weekdays, 6 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
This location is open until 7 p.m. every second Thursday of the month.
Saint Marys Campus
Joseph Building, M-86
Weekdays, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.