A blissful time that we all look forward to is approaching: Christmas. It is a time when blessings and gifts are bestowed upon us from our beloved individuals. In the midst of all this happiness, it is relevant to remember the most precious gift that one can give to another – the gift of saving a life. That’s right! The biggest gift of all cannot be bought at a store, but rather it is circulating through your veins. The blood drive is on Friday, December 11, 2015 in the JHS auditorium. Let’s all lend a hand in saving a valuable life and making a difference in this world.

Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion. You do not need a special reason to give blood. You simply need your own reason! Donating blood saves lives, which is a generous way to give back to your community. Also, most people are eligible – individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health. Most importantly, you will have someone’s everlasting gratitude. Whatever your reason, the need is constant and your contribution is imperative for a healthy and reliable blood supply. Afraid of needles? You are not alone. Many people share that fear but find that they can still give blood. Be positive about it – the slight initial pinch pales in comparison to the feeling of accomplishment you will attain at the end of a successful donation!

So how exactly does the process of donating blood work? It is a simple procedure with four steps. Step 1 is registration. After signing in and going over basic eligibility and donation information, you will read information about donating blood and will be asked to show a form of identification. Step 2 is a mini–physical. You will answer some questions including a private and confidential interview about your health history. Alongside, your pulse, blood pressure, body temperature, and hemoglobin level will be checked using a sample of your blood. Step 3 is the actual donation. It takes about 8–10 minutes, during which you will be seated comfortably. The process is safe and sterile. Step 4 is refreshments. After donating, you should have a snack and something to drink. Enjoy the feeling of achievement knowing that you have helped save a life.

There are multiple tips for a successful donation. Make sure to hydrate by drinking plenty of fluids on the day of your donation. Wear something comfortable, especially clothing with sleeves that can easily be rolled up above the elbow. Maintain a healthy level of iron in your diet before donating. It will be helpful to bring a list of medications you are currently taking. Do not forget to bring a form of identification.

The act and process of giving blood is safe and practically painless. It does not take a long time to make a blood donation, and a person can leave assured that a great amount of good was done by simply taking the time to donate. So raise your sleeves, and let’s all save some lives! You never really know when someone you love is going to need blood!