SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) -- Summer has been tough on the Sioux Empire's blood supply.
The Community Blood Bank's Ken Versteeg says there are fewer donors and more accidents with trauma.
"We have actually seen this summer outpacing of blood usage over collection by up to 25 percent," Versteeg said.
More people are traveling and not donating, Versteeg said. Plus, he says there are more accidents from travel on the roads and people boating.
When you donate, Versteeg says you'll feel a little sting and it will take 30 minutes out of your day. However, he says a little bit of sacrifice does a lot of good.
"I always ask the donor to remember the patient on the other end, that's receiving the blood that you're donating," Versteeg said. They may be going to considerable pain from a trauma, he noted.
You can help narrow that gap by participating in the Rise Shine Blood Drive Friday morning at Camille's on 41st Street. Donate from 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Donors will receive breakfast from Camille's and cookies from the South Dakota Pork Producers. The first 200 donors will also receive a t-shirt.
"This drive gets us over the hump, so to speak," until August, according to Versteeg. "It helps us complete the month of August real strong."
KELO Radio is one of the co-sponsors, along with Camille's and the S.D. Pork Producers.
Click here for more information. Click above to hear the full interview with Versteeg.