An ever-present need for blood donations has a local hospital reaching out for help from area residents.

Murray-Calloway County Hospital’s Blood Donor Center is in need of all blood types, but especially O-Negative blood. The constant supply of blood donated to the center gives the gift of life to many people, and takes less than an hour to complete.

Local residents may donate blood by attending scheduled blood drives in the community, or by making an appointment at the Blood Donor Center, located on the first floor of the hospital’s North Tower.

“The need for blood is ongoing, and at this time, we are in need of O-Negative blood,” said Beth Wiggins, Blood Donor Center coordinator. “Anyone who can take time out of their busy schedule to attend one of the community blood drives, or make an appointment at the donor center, is greatly appreciated. Spread the word to friends and family, every single donation made helps us provide the best patient care and also save lives.”

A blood donor must be at least 18 years old (16 or 17 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, and pass brief physical and healthy history exams prior to donation.

Anyone interested in hosting a blood drive or donating blood should contact the MCCH Blood Donor Center at 270-762-1119.