Tomorrow (June 14) marks World Blood Donor Day, which is a day to raise awareness of the need for blood and blood products. World Blood Donor Day also serves to celebrate blood donors and the lives they've saved through their generous donation.
According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds someone is in need of a blood transfusion. This can come from surgeries, cancer treatments, chronic illnesses, or traumatic injuries. However, less than 38% of the U.S. population is able to donate blood.
How Does Donating Blood Work?
During the blood-processing phase at the lab, the blood is tested for various diseases, and is then separated into four main components:
- Whole blood
- Red blood cells
- Platelets
- Plasma
A person needing a transfusion can receive whole blood, red cells, platelets, or plasma. From this process, multiple people can receive lifesaving components from just one donation. As a result, each blood donation can save up to three lives.
What Can I Expect When Donating?
If you've never donated blood before, it can be a bit scary. However, the process is short and includes the following:
- Registration, including donation eligibility
- A few short questions about health history
- The donation process, which takes about 8-10 minutes
- Your pint of blood is then collected
- Refreshments and light snacks are provided to ensure a speedy recovery
After a whole blood donation, donors must wait 56 days before being eligible to donate again.
I'd Like To Donate, But Where Do I Go?
If you are able to give blood and would like to schedule an appointment, contact your local American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767).
In addition, below are a few upcoming blood drives taking place in nearby Athens:
- June 14 • 12PM — 6PM
Richland United Methodist Church
60 Pomeroy Road
Athens, OH 45701 - June 15 • 9AM — 3PM
Ohio University Credit Union
944 East State Street
Athens, OH 45701
Hocking College also hosts multiple blood drives throughout the academic year.
