Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of the summer season and sun-filled, carefree days ahead. The true meaning of the holiday is to honor members of the United States Armed Forces who gave the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and defending our country’s freedoms. We can honor these brave service men and women by making and keeping an appointment to donate blood through the American Red Cross.
“Your blood donation at this time of year works as both a tribute and a testament to our nation’s armed forces,” said Tracy Fox, spokesperson for the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross. “By rolling up your sleeve, you’ll also help maintain a strong blood supply at a time of year when blood donations traditionally decline.”
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. While that need is constant, the number of people donating blood can fluctuate, particularly over the summer. Someone seriously injured in an automobile accident, for instance, may need up to 40 units of blood for their emergency care. It’s the blood already on the shelf that saves lives, so it’s very important that donors give blood throughout the year.
“We hope citizens recognize the ongoing need and will mark the Memorial Day holiday by donating blood,” said Fox. “Your donation will honor those who sacrificed for our country, as well as help ensure a stable blood supply for those in need.”
Upcoming blood donation opportunities in your area: Sunday, May 25 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Wal-mart, located at 1215 S. Main Street in Bryan. Thursday, May 29 from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the Edgerton Fire Department, located at 108 East Indiana Street in Edgerton.
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.