When we think of civic duties and engagement we think of paying taxes, registering to vote, encouraging others to vote, and other acts of volunteerism and service to others. When we think of volunteerism and service to others what do we envisage? Do we think of being on our feet for several hours at the local soup kitchen? Or perhaps we think of the thankless job of cleaning out the pens at our local animal shelter or rescue. Or do we think of the back-breaking tasks of cleaning litter off of our highways or digging it out of our bodies of water? I’m willing to bet that when we think of “volunteering” we don’t think of something that can be completed in under 15 minutes. We don’t think of something that requires little more than something that we have readily to give to those in need. And we certainly don’t think of something that can often get us free snacks in the process. Sounds almost too good to be true to be an act of volunteerism, right? Wrong! I’m talking about giving the gift of life, and second chances, otherwise something that we take for granted—Blood.
The American Red Cross estimates that someone needs blood about every two seconds in the United States. Although there is such a great need for blood, the American Red Cross estimates that only about 10% of the eligible donor population donates annually. The reason? Most just never really think about it, let alone realize the philanthropic impact of their simple donation.
January is National Blood Donor Month. National Blood Donor Month was enacted in 1970 by then President, Richard Nixon. Donating blood is just as essential now as it was then. The American Red Cross requires approximately 36,000 units of red blood cells DAILY. What’s more, a single car accident victim could require up to 100 pints of blood, though a single donation has the potential to save more than one patient. Moreover, a red blood cell donation is usually used within 42 days from collection.
For those of you with Type O blood, just know that you’re in high demand. Type O Negative (think gothic metal band) red blood cells can be transfused into a patient with any blood type. However great the demand, only about 7% of the population possess this coveted blood type. AB Positive donors are the universal donors for plasma. Even more rare, only about 3% of the population possess this blood type (you can thank me at your next trivia night).
You may be a little apprehensive about the process, and rightfully so! Unless you’re a collector of tattoos, I don’t know too many people who look forward to getting poked with a needle unless absolutely necessary. If this article hasn’t convinced you yet of the necessity for blood donation, please see the American Red Cross website (www.redcross.org). Allow me to demystify the blood donation process for those of you who may be curious. The collection of a blood donation takes place in four simple steps:
1. Registration
2. Medical History (usually filled out electronically)
3. A mini-physical (you may get a finger stick)
4. Donation
Once you’ve given your donation you are able to enjoy free refreshments (and oftentimes other incentives) before going on your way. The whole process takes approximately 15 minutes from start to finish. If you’re attending a larger event in which each station is in use, your wait time will vary. The process is safe, sterile and relatively painless. You are able to go about your day as you normally would, but be sure to rest and drink plenty of water, and follow all post-donation instructions.
If you’ve never given it some thought before, now is certainly a good time to start. If you find that you’re still a little apprehensive about donating, feel free to volunteer at a local blood drive to get some first-hand experience with the process. As there is always a need for blood, there is always a need for helping hands to set-up and facilitate a blood drive.
To find out more about donating blood, about the American Red Cross, or to find a donation center or blood drive, please visit www.redcross.org. Better yet, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App and find nearby Red Cross blood drives, schedule appointments, earn rewards, follow your blood as it makes it way to the hospital, join a lifesaving team, and track the team’s impact on a national leaderboard.
