The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck
One of the easiest ways to save a life is by donating blood. You may not realize how much your blood donation may mean to someone, but it really does matter. In fact, the number of people who need blood daily is astronomical. According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds a person in the United States needs blood. Furthermore, donated blood doesn’t have a really long shelf life. Therefore, the need for blood donations is an ongoing one.
January marks National Blood Donor Month, specifically because winter months tend to be challenging for blood donations. Poor weather conditions and frequent colds cause donators to miss appointments. Therefore, raising awareness during these months is important for getting more people involved in the donation process. This is especially critical as nearly 38% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, yet only 10% do. While A negative, B negative, and O negative often top the list of most needed blood types, no blood type will go to waste!
In order to donate blood, the American Red Cross lists three requirements: 1. Be at least 17 years of age. 2. Weigh at least 110 pounds. 3. Be in good health. If you meet these requirements, you are a good candidate. Before the actual donation, a health professional will ask more questions to ensure you can donate. Once it is determined you can donate, the actual donation process is a safe, simple, and fast one.
Please consider becoming a regular blood donator. Chances are that you may know someone who needs or has needed a blood transfusion. Reasons for blood transfusions are numerous, including anemia, blood disorders, burns, cancers, illnesses, infections, injuries, liver failure, surgeries, and others. You just never know when you may be the person who needs a blood transfusion. If you would like to donate blood, check out the American Red Cross website at www.redcross.org and contact them today. Your donation would truly be a lifesaver!
