NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES

Meghan Steckowski, Nutritionist & Certified Wellness Coach
Director of Client Services and Health Promotion

Looking to make a difference in 2019? Donate blood. According to the Red Cross, every two seconds, someone in America needs blood. Blood donors save lives.

Did you know…

• There is no substitute for blood. Every transfusion received was because of a generous blood donor.

• You can donate blood every 56 days.

• One donation can potentially save up to three lives.

• A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood.

What can I expect when I donate?

Once you are checked in, you will be asked confidentially for your health history, medications and any travel outside the U.S. Your vital signs will be checked including blood pressure and temperature. Blood donation takes 8-10 minutes and you will be seated or laying down. You will donate approximately a pint of blood and afterwards will be given a snack and beverage. You will leave with the satisfaction that your donation may help to save up to three lives. Click here to find a blood drive in your area.

What happens to my blood after I donate?

According to the organization OneBlood, a sample is sent to a state-of-the-art testing facility. A variety of tests are run to ensure blood is safe for transfusion. Within 24 hours of your donation the results are reported. If approved, your donation is prepared for distribution to a hospital. Red cells can be refrigerated for up to 42 days. In most cases, donated blood will be transfused within two to three days of donation.

The need for blood donations is constant and the Red Cross works 365 days a year to get your donation to your neighbors, near and far. Not all heroes wear capes. Donate today!