KENTUCKY — Blood banks across the Commonwealth are asking for the community’s help as they experience a shortage of plasma that might assist current COVID-19 patients.
“I didn’t even really know that I had it at first. I thought I just had a cold or coming down with the flu but when the body aches started and the chills and the loss of taste and smell I started to get a little nervous, explains Arlene Bird, a survivor of COVID-19.
Bird contracted the virus in early March. With only mild symptoms and no hospitalization needed she has now fully recovered.
Now that she has the antibodies, she says donating convalescent plasma is her way to help those who are battling the disease.
“I just believe every life is precious and we all count and it’s just something I have always wanted to do,” explains Bird.
When Bird got the green light from medical professionals, she started donating.
“As soon as I found out that I had the antibodies I wanted to come in and donate and I’ll probably donate probably more than just this one time,” adds Bird.
As more and more people survive the virus, Pam Greer-Ullrich, donor recruiter for the American Red Cross, is wanting people to line up to donate. The nonprofit is seeing a decline in the number of people donating a potentially lifesaving treatment for patients diagnosed with COVID-19.
“Only 2% of the population actually probably has the antibodies that could even participate so that shortens the number of people who could potentially be the convalescent donor,” says Greer-Ullrich.
Researchers say the plasma contains antibodies that may help attack the virus and help individuals recover more rapidly. One donation can help up to three COVID-19 patients.
“Just like with blood donations, it’s very important and it can be lifesaving to someone who needs that,” adds Greer-Ullrich.
The organization says they have distributed more than 40,000 plasma donations across 170 locations nationwide so far. Right now, they are pleading to survivors to consider giving back to help those in need.
The process takes about an hour for most donors. The machine separates antibodies from the blood which then can be given to patients.
“We’re encouraging everyone who has had a COVID antibody test that has been positive and they have recovered and they are 14 days past any symptoms, we are encouraging them to sign up,” says Greer-Ullrich.
It’s a gift of life that Bird hopes will be able to give another patient a fighting chance. That’s why she’s encouraging others to do the same.
“Basically don’t keep it to yourself, share it, and let’s just help everybody. We’re all in this together and they keep saying it and we are. So, let’s try to beat this and get rid of it,” says Bird.
Donors must be symptom-free for 14 days, 17 years or older, and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health.
The organization is also calling on donors to roll up their sleeves because blood and platelets are urgently needed. You can learn more and find a donation center near you at the American Red Cross website.