For the last 39 years January has been recognized as National Blood Donor Month. The need for blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. January, in particular, is a difficult month for blood centers to collect blood donations, and a reduction in turnout can put our nation's blood inventory critically low.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agencies (FEMA) Regional Administrator, Susan Reinertson reports that if donations are low, the need for blood isn't. "Every three seconds someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion for patients with cancer and other diseases, for organ transplant recipients, and to help save the lives of accident victims, and approximately 39,000 units of red blood are needed every day," said Reinertson. "Donating blood is a simple, safe, life-saving and selfless gift that enhances the level of preparedness of each and every community in this nation."

The goal is to help ensure that blood is available to patients whenever and wherever it is needed because it is the blood on the shelves that helps saves lives. If you are at least 17 years of age (some states permit younger people to donate with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and meet other donor requirements, you may be eligible to donate blood. Celebrate National Blood Donor Month by donating blood and encouraging others to do so as well. To make an appointment locate the blood drive nearest to you by visiting Cascade Regional Blood Services or call (253)-841-4236 to schedule your own appointment.