While New Year resolutions are still fresh in your mind, consider adding a resolution that saves lives. Resolve to donate blood throughout 2019.
January is National Blood Donor Month. Since 1970, the month has been observed to recognize the contributions of blood and platelet donors and to encourage others to roll up their sleeves and donate.
January is appropriate for Blood Donor Month. The holidays often disrupt the schedules of even regular blood donors so, by the new year, hospitals often are depleted of their supply.
Plus, winter generally is a time when we probably think less about donating blood and more about getting home for the evening, and staying there until morning.
So if you're a blood donor and you've gotten off track, it's understandable. But now is the time to start giving again. If you're new to donating, it takes about an hour, is no worse than a little discomfort, and truly does save lives.
Starting is easy. The two main blood centers in Jefferson City are operated by the American Red Cross and the Community Blood Center.
The Community Blood Center is at 751 W. Stadium Blvd. and can be reached at 556-5550.
Call the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit the local blood center at 3230 Emerald Lane. You also can download the blood donor app on your phone.
You don't have to go to the blood center. Red Cross drives often are in our area. The next one will be from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday at the Truman State Office Building, 301 W. High St.
Statistically, you'll be in more than one vehicle crash in your life. When that happens, you may need blood.
By donating, each of us ensures that it will be there for any of us, if and when we need it.
News Tribune