Give Blood: Make donating blood a summer activity
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Most of us are looking for something to do to celebrate summer -- a relatively normal summer, at that. There are summer camps, vacations, home improvement projects, fairs and festivals … plenty to occupy active families. Consider adding something else to the list: become a blood donor.
Officials with the American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley say there is a severe blood shortage -- here and across the country -- because of the increase in the number of trauma cases, organ transplants and elective surgeries. Blood of all types is needed, but type O is especially in demand.
"When seconds count in emergency trauma situations, it's the blood already on the shelves that can make the difference in lifesaving care," said Sharon Kesselring, executive director, American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley. "As many people begin to enjoy travel and time with loved ones again this summer, patients are relying on the generosity of donors to help ensure they have access to the treatment they need. Please consider blood donation as a summer activity that can help save lives."
If you take time out of your day to donate blood, you'll help someone else -- maybe even save a life -- and have the bragging rights that go with it. Go to redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to get started. You, and the person you help, will be glad you did.