Don’t leave it to ‘someone else’ Do something amazing; give blood!

The American Red Cross blood drive is coming up before long. They’ll be looking for heros like you who are willing to donate the gift of life. You would be amazed if you could see what your donation will do.

The Red Cross reminds you that a one-pint donation can be used in more ways than one. There are four types of transfusable products that can be derived from blood: red cells, platelets, plasma and cryoprecipitate, which contains molecules involved in blood clotting. Typically, two or three of these factors are produced from a pint of donated whole blood. Each donation could save up to four lives.

You don’t need a special reason to give blood, just your own reason. Some people do it when a family member needs a transfusion and others because they were asked to by a friend.

But you can donate because you believe it’s the right thing to do. These are the donors the Red Cross is particularly looking for in its blood drive.

Whatever your reason, the need is constant, your contribution is important and you?ll feel good knowing you helped save one or more lives.

The actual donation takes about 8-10 minutes, during which you will be seated comfortably. The process is safe and sterile.

After donating, you’ll be given a snack and something to drink in the refreshments area. You can leave the site after 10-15 minutes and continue with your normal daily activities.