I have a newfound appreciation for blood donors. You see, it is numerous whole blood and platelet transfusions over the past few months that have helped to keep my dad alive. THANK YOU, DONORS!!
According to the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), blood is in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. January, in particular, is a difficult month for blood centers to collect blood donations. A reduction in turnout can put our nation’s blood inventory at a critical low.
From one unit of blood, red blood cells can be extracted for use in trauma or surgical patients. Plasma, the liquid part of blood, is administered to patients with clotting problems. The third component of blood, platelets, clot the blood when cuts or other open wounds occur, and are often used in cancer and transplant patients.
Statistics indicate that only 4% of eligible individuals actually donate blood. If you are at least 17 years of age and weigh at least 110 pounds and meet other donor requirements, you may be eligible to donate blood! So...what are you waiting for??!!
One unit of donated blood can save 3 lives. Thanks for donating blood!!
Source: AABB
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