Donate Blood and Assist Save Lives

January is Nationwide Blood Donor Month, a time once we honor the generosity of America’s blood donors and remind folks in regards to the significance of donating blood often for individuals who are in a position to take action. The winter months additionally deliver on decreased donations as a result of elevated sickness from COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Moreover, winter climate could make it troublesome for blood donors to make and preserve donation appointments.

Each two seconds, somebody in the US wants blood for surgical procedures, most cancers remedies, childbirth, anemia, critical accidents, blood problems, and extra.

To assist be certain that all of us have blood once we want it, I helped launch the U.S. Division of Well being and Human Companies marketing campaign Giving = Residing. By means of transferring private tales, the marketing campaign highlights people who share how blood donations saved their lives throughout navy service, accidents, medical emergencies, and power sicknesses.

This yr’s Nationwide Blood Donor Month theme is Celebrating Variety, Inclusivity and Fairness in Blood Donation. The theme emphasizes that though all People are inspired to donate blood, it’s particularly essential for folks from various backgrounds to take action. This helps be sure that individuals who have uncommon blood sorts have appropriate blood out there to them after they want it.

And this yr is the primary Nationwide Blood Donor Month for the reason that FDA’s launch final yr of their Ultimate Steering on blood and plasma donations, after they changed the 3-month deferral for homosexual, bisexual, and different males who’ve intercourse with males with a person threat evaluation the place all blood donors are requested the identical questions, no matter their id. I consider this improves the accuracy of the danger evaluation of all blood donors as a result of all donors shall be requested the identical questions. I applaud the FDA for utilizing one of the best out there scientific proof right this moment to replace eligibility insurance policies, whereas additionally persevering with to keep up a secure and satisfactory provide of blood and blood merchandise in the US. I additionally hope that this new steering will encourage those that could haven’t been capable of donate beforehand, to contemplate doing so underneath the brand new tips.

An important factor to recollect when contemplating donating blood is that doing so can save a life. Watch Earl’s story to learn the way blood donation helped to save lots of his life when he was severely injured by a roadside bomb, whereas serving within the navy. Due to blood donors, he’s nonetheless right here right this moment residing a life with goal.

Donors, particularly those that donate often, preserve our nation’s blood provide steady. Though many individuals donate blood after disasters, sufferers want blood year-round. Shortages within the nation’s blood provide can occur at any time. If you’re eligible to donate blood, I encourage you to make an appointment to donate right this moment. Donating blood simply as soon as may help save a couple of life. It’s much more impactful for those who can donate often!

I hope you’ll be a part of me in spreading the message in regards to the significance of donating blood. Go to the Giving = Residing web site to discover a donation middle close to you, study in regards to the blood donation course of, and get solutions to widespread questions and considerations. You may also assist us discover extra blood donor heroes. Use our marketing campaign supplies to assist us get the phrase out.

I recognize your assist. It’s a pleasure to thank donors and supporters personally. Your efforts make a distinction to tens of millions of People. I’m deeply appreciative of your efforts to make everybody in your group more healthy.