Submitted by Tami Bohannon, Chief Advancement Officer
Valentine’s Day is coming and I’m sure just reading those words made you think of hearts and flowers!
I am hoping #NationalBloodDonorMonth – which we celebrate every January — will make you think about and thank your heart – which is an essential organ when it comes to pumping blood.
During this month I am asking you to take a deep look into your heart and consider sharing some of that lifesaving liquid that runs through your veins. It is needed now more than ever.
The American Red Cross tells us that due to increased seasonal illnesses during the winter months and inclement weather conditions, donations of blood and platelets decline, and demand increases. We also know that there’s a national blood shortage due to the pandemic.
If you are worried about needles, don’t be – and I can speak from recent experience – you’ll feel a mild, split-second pitch! The entire process is very safe and very fast, and you will feel amazing knowing you potentially saved up to three people. And all that pales in comparison to who you could be helping. Did you know that every 2 seconds someone needs blood around the world?
That is A LOT of blood! It is needed for emergencies and for people who need regular blood transfusions to live.
Here are a couple of common reasons people don’t give blood – and the facts behind the myths:
Myth: Donating blood will make me weak.
- After giving blood, a short rest and increased fluid intake will help replenish lost fluids. Then you may resume normal activities.
Myth: The trait of the blood donor will be transferred to the patient.
- It is not by blood by genes that the traits are transferred from one person to another.
Myth: I think I’m anemic.
- The blood bank performs hemoglobin determination in the potential blood donor before donation.
Myth: No one has ever asked me to donate.
- Consider yourself invited! Think of giving before being asked. You can visit Vitalant.org to get information on where, how, and when you can donate. Give blood. Don’t wait for a disaster. Someone needs blood now!
Can’t donate? You can still help! Consider:
- Recruit others to donate.
- Organize a blood donation drive/activity
- Volunteer to assist during blood drive donation activities
Start celebrating hearts a month early and join me to make a difference during #NationalBloodDonorMonth. The entire process is very safe and very fast, and you will feel amazing knowing you potentially saved up to three people.
Valentine’s Day is coming and I’m sure just reading those words made you think of hearts and flowers!
