By Staff
Special to the Advance
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood just to survive. In the time it took to read the last sentence, approximately two lives were saved because blood was ready when an emergency situation arose. Blood donors in Atmore will get a chance to become heroes by giving blood at the upcoming American Legion Blood Drive, scheduled for Sept. 22 from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m.
Blood, moreover blood donors, can save up to two lives per donation. The statistics are staggering. Some 700 donations are needed per day in our region alone just to meet the current need for blood, creating a constantly critical need for donors who roll up their sleeves to save the lives of their neighbors. The victim of a traffic accident could need between four and 100 units of blood. The average heart bypass patient needs four to six units. The need for blood is constant, but it is in the summer months that this need is most critical.
Blood given by donors at the blood drive will allow mothers to go home to their children, give cancer patients a better chance at recovery and improve the quality of life for those who suffer from illnesses such as sickle cell anemia. There really is no easier way to become a hero, and all it takes is a little of one's time to give another a life full of time, moments that can be spent with families and friends.
To donate, you must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Donors must also show identification in the form of a driver's license or ARC donor card. If you are sick and cannot donate, please encourage a friend or loved one to donate in your place. If everyone who could donate would donate, there would never be a blood shortage in our area.
Donors who wish to speed up their donation time can make an appointment by visiting www.givelife.org <http://www.givelife.org/> , or by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE.
Be a hero to your neighbors in need and touch countless lives. There really is no greater gift one can give. Give blood, give life.
Together, we can save a life.