Gift of Life

I have a public service announcement! May I have your attention, please?! Because I am vertically challenged, I will briefly stand on a soapbox so you can hear me loud and clear!

Would you like to save a stranger’s life? It is as easy as giving blood. January has been recognized as National Blood Donor Month for almost forty years (since 1970). Blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to holiday travel schedules, inclement weather, and illness. Even though donations are usually down during the winter, the need continues. Every three seconds someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion, and approximately 39,000 units of red blood are needed every day. It is an easy, safe, and (almost) painless way to help your community.

Are you not sure where to donate? Do you want to find out if you are eligible to donate? You can find answers to these questions at the American Red Cross or American Association of Blood Banks.

I am absolutely delighted that our local blood bank has opened up a satellite office on the west end of town where I live. I was able to conveniently give today, in between shopping errands. The staff gave me the usual “rock star” treatment and must have thanked me a dozen times. According to them, I have the best veins on the whole planet. (But I bet they tell everyone that, LOL.) After a free cookie, soda, and t-shirt, I was on my way!

As I was lounging in the recliner, I couldn’t help but notice that I was the youngest person donating. And I am not a spring chicken anymore. Today was a holiday for many people, so I would have expected a wider age range. Sadly, that was not the case. I hope my blog readers will rise to the challenge and give the gift of life. Bless you!