There's a tremendous need for blood in this country and that need is growing every year. Ongoing advances in surgical and chemotherapy treatments allow us to lead longer, healthier lives. However, many of these treatments also require blood transfusions as part of the patient's care. Transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, and plasma are critical to a patient's return to good health.

When you see an ambulance or a med-flight helicopter, do you ever wonder about the patient? Do they need blood? Will there be enough blood? A blood donation from you, every few months, will help insure that there is always enough blood in supply.

Did you know that blood has to be used within 42 days after it is donated? That means that it is important for blood collection centers to have a steady, ongoing stream of blood donors, every day. Our nation's response to the cry for blood donors after the September 11th tragedy was heart-warming and overwhelming, but it's now important for people to continue to donate. We need to keep our blood supply high not just in the event of another crisis, but also because there are individuals every day whose lives depend on it.

There are 13 million units of blood transfused every year in the US and the average patient who receives a transfusion uses 4 units of blood. Finally, it is estimated that 85% of us will need a transfusion by the time we reach age 75. By donating blood to insure there is enough in supply, the life we save may be our own.

Donating blood is easy, painless, and only takes about an hour of your time. Read more about donating in the "Donating Blood" section and call your local blood center today to schedule an appointment to donate.