Give Blood and Give the Gift of Life

Blood donation is a selfless act that can help save lives. According to the American Red Cross, one donation can save as many as three lives, and someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds. Donating blood can seem intimidating, but it’s an easy process that can help make a positive impact on the world. There are health benefits for donors, too, on top of the benefits that come from helping others.

Donating blood has benefits for your emotional and physical health. According to a report by the Mental Health Foundation, helping others can reduce stress, improve your emotional well-being, benefit your physical health, help get rid of negative feelings, provide a sense of belonging, and reduce isolation¹. Research has found further evidence of the health benefits that come specifically from donating blood. In order to give blood, you’re required to undergo a health screening. A trained staff member performs this checkup. They’ll check your pulse, blood pressure, body temperature, and hemoglobin levels. This free mini-physical can offer excellent insight into your health. It can effectively detect problems that could indicate an underlying medical condition or risk factors for certain diseases.

Donating blood is safe for healthy adults. There’s no risk of contracting disease. New, sterile equipment is used for each donor. Some people may feel nauseous, lightheaded, or dizzy after donating blood. If this happens, it should only last a few minutes. You can lie down with your feet up at the until you feel better. You may also experience some bleeding at the site of the needle. Applying pressure and raising your arm for a couple of minutes will usually stop this. You may develop a bruise at the site. Call the blood donation center if you still feel lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous after drinking, eating, and resting, or if you develop a raised bump or continue bleeding at the needle site.

Remember, donating blood is a safe and easy way to make a positive impact on the world.

Every donation counts! 🩸