A small way to save lives
If your New Year’s resolutions included finding small ways to do good more frequently, the American Red Cross has some ideas for you. You — yes, you — are needed, right now.
A glance at the organization’s website reveals an alert that there is a “severe blood and platelet shortage” because winter weather and widespread flu cases have led to a drop in donations.
“Seconds count in emergencies, and it’s the blood and and platelets already on hospital shelves that help save lives,” the website reads.
There’s even a pitch that if you donate by Jan. 25, you will be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the Super Bowl. From Jan. 26-Feb. 28, donors will receive a $20 e-gift card from a merchant of their choice.
Local opportunities to give blood include Friday, Jan. 30, from noon to 5 p.m. at Abundant Life Baptist Church in Washington; Tuesday, Jan 27, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Monessen High School in Monessen; Monday, Feb. 2, from noon to 5 p.m. at Fairchance Fire Hall in Fairchance; Friday, Feb. 6, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Uniontown; Thursday, Feb. 17, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the American Legion Lafayette Post 51 in Uniontown; and Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 1 to 6 p.m. at Masontown Brethren Church in Masontown.
Generally speaking, donors can give blood approximately every 56 days, up to six times per year. Platelet donors can give every seven days, up to 24 times per year. And “AB elite plasma” donors can give every 28 days, up to 13 times a year.
On the other hand, there are some reasons a person cannot donate, or donate as frequently. Check the eligibility requirements here: redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements. There’s a good chance there’s nothing stopping you.
But the Red Cross does more than provide blood services. The organization also needs volunteers and financial donations. Human help is required for its disaster relief efforts, international work and the support it gives military families.
A person could do so much good by making a regular habit of donating blood/blood product, volunteering, or offering financial support.
Resolve to do that. Your small gesture could save lives.