January celebrated as national volunteer blood donor month

December 27, 2012, 6:30 pm by Staff Reports

January marks the annual celebration of National Volunteer Blood Donor Month, a time to raise awareness and honor those caring individuals who touch the lives of patients through the selfless act of blood donation. The Blood Center of Central Texas recognizes and thanks its blood donors who continue to make a difference in our community by donating blood. As a thank you during the month of January, every donor who donates or attempts to donate at a fixed site will receive a National Blood Donor t-shirt.

Blood supplies often fall to their lowest levels during January due to busy post-holiday schedules, changing weather and cold and flu season. However, the need for blood remains constant in the early months of the year. By giving blood, you are ensuring that surgeries, transplants, cancer treatments and burn therapies all go on as scheduled. By sharing your good health and generous spirit, you help make miracles happen and lifesaving possible.

Basic requirements to donate blood include being at least 17 years old, weighing at least 115 lbs for whole blood donation and being in generally good health. Donors need to bring a photo ID. The process takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour.

For more information about blood donation, please call The Blood Center of Central Texas at 512.206.1266 or visit The Center’s website at www.inyourhands.org.