The American Red Cross Celebrated National Blood Donor Month This January
The American Red Cross and Blood Donations
You never really consider the possibility, but some day you might be dependent on the services of the American Red Cross. Through the efforts of the American Red Cross, hospitals are supplied with a much-needed product -- human blood. January just happened to be National Blood Donor Month. If you didn't donate blood then, it's not too late.
A Life Depends On It
Donating blood is so important. There is such a great need for it. If you are ever in an accident and get severely injured and bleed a lot or if you undergo serious surgery or experience other medical complications, you might need a blood transfusion. The Red Cross is responsible for collecting a lot of the blood that hospitals have on hand. The demand for blood almost never meets the supply, which is why the American Red Cross depends on the generosity of so many individuals.
Those Who Can, Should
A desire to give blood and help others, though, sometimes is not enough. Not everyone can give blood. There are some individuals, who because of certain medical conditions, are unable to donate blood. The American Red Cross asks potential blood donors a series of questions before drawing blood. Generally, someone who is diabetic or has certain clotting disorders is not going to be able to donate blood. Also, blood donors must wait at least eight weeks before donating blood again. Because the process is very selective, anyone who meets the blood donor requirements should really try to give as often as they can.
The Convenience Factor
Giving blood doesn't have to be a hassle. The American Red Cross sometimes conducts blood drives at office locations. As an employee, you can take time off and donate blood while still getting paid by your employer. If there hasn’t been a blood drive where you work, you can check out local churches, fire departments, and other community organizations. The American Red Cross has many blood drives throughout the year, and you can find more information or a blood drive near you by visiting www.Givelife.org.