Every two seconds, someone, somewhere, is in need of blood. Our blood is essential to our biological makeup, but we may not really understand just how important it is until we start to lose it.
Think about it:
Blood products are needed to support and care for those who may have bone marrow disorders and patients undergoing advanced medical and surgical procedures. Further, it is used every day to care for mothers who experience childbirth and for the countless numbers of people who experience unexpected traumas and injuries.
The Community Blood Center estimates that 4.5 million Americans will need a blood transfusion this year. In all of these cases, the blood that is needed and used comes from people who have decided to give a little of their own blood, so that someone else can survive.
June 14th is World Blood Donor Day. There is someone in need of access to safe blood transfusions in every country around the world. The World Health Organization offers more of what you can do to help those in need of blood products.
Here are 6 reasons why you should be the one to help:
- There is no substitute for human blood. Our blood cannot be artificially made! It has to come straight from its natural source.
- 1 in 7 people who enter the hospital need blood.
- It takes just 10 minutes to actually donate blood. Whole blood donation is the most common donation which allows for the use of red blood cells, plasma, and platelets for procedures and transfusions.
- Only 37% of the US population is eligible to give blood, but less than 10% of those who are eligible actually donate.
- One donation can save up to 3 lives. You can help save up to 3 people!
- Donating blood is completely free. Being a hero costs nothing.
“It is usually during the summer months when we see blood shortages due to decreased donor turnout,” says Stephanie Whitehead, Executive Director of Pathology Services at University Health, “The need may also increase since more people are being active outside. We see the number of traumatic events goes up as the weather gets better.”
Consider taking the time to help save a life this summer. We can always use blood at our level 1 trauma center at University Health or you can donate blood in San Antonio at any local blood drive. Call Blood Donor Services at 210-358-2812 or visit www.donatebloodtoday.com to make an appointment.
