Hectic holiday schedules in November and December contributed to about 1,700 fewer blood drives held, and 50,000 fewer donations collected, than the two previous months. To prevent a winter blood shortage, eligible donors are encouraged by the American Red Cross to roll up a sleeve this month to help save lives and ensure patients have the blood products they need. Every two seconds, someone needs blood. From newborns needing open heart surgery to cancer patients requiring blood transfusion, the need is constant. Every day, the Red Cross needs 14,000 blood donations to meet patient needs across the country.
Winnetka residents Kim Falk and Beth Dustman personally know the importance of giving back when the temperatures drop and the need for blood soars.
In celebration of Beth’s birthday, Kim and two other girlfriends rolled up a sleeve at a party she organized last winter at a Red Cross blood drive where her husband, Scott Falk, serves on the organization’s Board of Directors.
“It’s the best gift to give back,” says Beth, surrounded by her friends, and a nod to her father who had leukemia and needed blood. Rather than toasting champagne on her 50th birthday, she raised a cupcake to raise her blood sugar levels.
Giving blood may be a meaningful act to all of Beth’s friends, but every single donation goes a long way. With a shelf life of just 42 days, red blood cells are highly perishable and need to be constantly replenished to help those with serious medical conditions. Donating blood helps the Red Cross ensure the right blood type and product are available when they’re needed most.
To help give the gift of life, sign up for an appointment today at any upcoming blood drive by visiting redcrossblood.org. Can’t donate blood? Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App to recruit friends and set up a virtual blood drive. High school and college students can also sign up to join a local Red Cross Club to volunteer at nearly drives.
