In January, every year since 1970, the American Red Cross celebrates National Blood Donor Month to recognize the lifesaving contribution of blood and platelet donors. The month of January was selected to attempt to increase blood and platelet donations during winter months.
Winter is one of the most challenging times to collect blood donations to meet ongoing patient needs. During winter months, inclement weather can lead to cancelled or postponed blood drives, and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, can cause donors to be temporarily unavailable to donate.
This month, and throughout the year, your friends at Tria Health encourage you to roll up a sleeve and give back to those in need.
The Benefits of Donating Blood
The American Red Cross outlines the benefits of donating blood:
It feels great to donate!
You get free juice and delicious cookies.
It’s something you can spare – most people have blood to spare… yet, there is still not enough to go around.
You will help ensure blood is on the shelf when needed – most people don’t think they’ll ever need blood, but many do.
You will be someone’s hero – in fact, you could help save more than one life with just one donation.
How to Donate Blood
Blood donation appointments can be made by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting www.redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or to receive more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
All blood types are accepted for donation—in fact, all blood types are needed, appreciated and could save multiple lives!