Did you know that every two seconds, someone in the US needs blood? Blood cannot be manufactured and come only come from donors.
Each day hospitals across the country rely on blood supplies thanks to approximately 6.8 million people who donate blood each year. While that number may seem high, only 10% of the estimated 38% of the eligible population donates.
January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month, an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of donating blood. It is crucial for the nation’s hospital systems to maintain a well-stocked blood supply in anticipation of sudden disasters or their patients’ medical needs.
Blood donation is a safe and simple process. After registration, donors complete a medical history and mini-physical (to confirm their eligibility), donate blood and receive refreshments afterward. While the entire process takes about an hour and 15 minutes to complete, only 10 to 12 minutes of that is the actual blood donation. Roughly one pint is given during a single donation. To put it in perspective, a single car accident victim may require as many as 100 pints of blood.
People donate blood for a variety of reasons, but the most often cited reason is to help others. Whether you are a regular donor or have not donated before, take time to learn about volunteer blood donation from the American Red Cross. Blood drives take place at various locations in your area throughout the year to help maintain a blood supply. Consider donating today.
