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2.09.2012

Good Deeds 2012 Week 6: Donated Blood

Good Deed: Donated blood.

I try to donate blood every other month (when I'm not pregnant). It's pretty easy since I can walk to a LifeSource donation center a few blocks from my office during lunch. And, honestly, I rarely leave the office during the day, so it's a good excuse to get out.

I'm not a huge fan of needles or being poked, but it passes quickly and you get to sit in a comfy chair, watch some bad tv, and read. And then you get pretzels and cookies and fun stickers to make people think you're a good person. Woo hoo!

Blood donation is a way you can LITERALLY help save a life. Here are a couple of things to consider (according to LifeSource):
  • Children being treated for cancer, premature infants and children having heart surgery need blood and platelets from donors of all types. 
  • Severe burn victims can need about 20 units of platelets during their treatment.
  • Every three seconds someone needs blood
  • 4.5 million Americans would die each year without life saving blood transfusions

When is the last time you donated blood?
  • 60% of the population is medically eligible to give blood, yet only 5% of the national population donates blood.
  • If all blood donors gave 2 to 4 times a year, it would help prevent blood shortages.
  • About three gallons of blood supports the entire nation’s blood needs for one minute.
  • Every day more than 38,000 blood donations are required to meet the needs of hospitals and emergency treatment facilities.

And if the whole saving lives thing doesn't make you want to schedule an appointment, LifeSource has a rewards program with points that can get you gifts cards and other fun stuff. Consider making an appointment at a donor center near you.

Side Note: Seriously, how did I get through this post without a vampire joke?!?!

What was your good deed this week? Link it up or leave a comment!



Note: I am in no way affiliated with LifeSource, nor was I compensated for this post. All information was found on their website: www.lifesource.org

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