Island Donors Squad (IDS) is collaborating with Adrian Martinez of the Belize National Blood Transfusion Services (BNTBS) to increase the island’s blood reserves through blood drives . Currently facing a blood shortage, IDS is working to meet the needs of seven people, which requires thirty-three pints of blood. IDS has decided to maintain a reserve of five pints above the limit to reduce the necessity for emergency drives.
After reaching this threshold, the squad will plan for an emergency drive to ensure an adequate blood supply, thereby minimizing the risk of shortages and the need for individuals to wait in line for blood. This new approach will help IDS maintain a steady supply. Laurie Norton, also known as “Taco Girl,” one of the founders of IDS, has expressed her frustration over the current shortage of blood supply for emergencies.
She states that public outcry for changes over the years has gone unanswered. As a response, IDS is proud to announce its new implementation strategy. “The goal is to alleviate the stress on patients and their families by helping them find the blood they need for planned surgeries or urgent situations.
We understand the challenges within the system and the difficulties that families and patients encounter during tough times. IDS aims to ease the burden on patients and families by assisting them in finding the blood they require for planned surgeries or critical situations.” IDS has recently achieved one of its key objectives by im.
