Want to be in the top 3%? Consider donating blood this month.
Every time a person donates blood, that gift could save up to three lives by helping people who are enduring cancer treatment, undergoing surgery, living with a chronic illness, and suffering from burns or a traumatic injury.
And yet, every year, only 3% of eligible individuals actually donate blood, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Because of that, the United States is facing a severe blood shortage. And it’s something that we could all play a role in solving.
January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to honor those who give blood and platelets, and encourage more people to do so. This January, if you’re looking for ways to make an impact and even save lives, consider giving this life-saving gift. Need more inspiration? Read on.
- Blood is truly one of the most precious gifts you can give. Every two seconds, someone in this country needs blood. For that, our healthcare systems depend on the generosity of donors. Blood is something that cannot be made artificially. It must be given.
- More donations benefit more people — of all blood types. While most people have one of the four major blood types (A, B, AB and O), some people have blood that is rare. More donors will result in more blood types, which can in turn help more people in need. (Note: there are some eligibility requirements for giving blood, visit the website of the American Red Cross to find out if you’re eligible)
- Your body will make more. Some people are concerned that if they donate blood, it may impact their health. In fact, the body is an amazing machine. It begins to replenish blood right away and, according to the Department of Health and Human Services, blood volume is restored after just 48 hours for most people, and red blood cells are replaced within four to eight weeks. Donation centers have rules about how frequently an individual can donate, in order to prioritize the health of the donor.
- It’s a remarkable way to give back to your community. One out of every seven people who are treated in a hospital will need blood. When you donate blood, you’re helping someone’s friend and family member. Making the effort to help others can also be a boost to your own mental health. You just helped save lives!
- Blood donations tend to dwindle during winter months, so the need grows. There’s a reason January was named National Blood Donor Month: because that’s when more blood donations are needed. A number of factors keep people home in January: cold and flu, winter weather and post-holiday exhaustion. Yet, hospitals and patients are still in need of blood. You can make an impact by giving this month.
- Donating blood requires minimal effort, and has maximal impact. The actual blood donation part of the process takes only eight to 10 minutes, according to the American Red Cross, while the entire appointment takes a little more than an hour. While you’re there, you’ll also have a free health screening—and you’ll get complimentary snacks!
Every year, nearly 7 million people donate blood. Start this year off by leading with generosity, and join them. You never know whose life you might save.
To learn more about blood donation opportunities in your area, visit Giving Life, a site managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or the American Red Cross site and search by zip code, or talk to your healthcare provider.
