Still struggling to pick a New Year’s Resolution? If so, resolve to save a life this year. Unfortunately, winter is a difficult time of year to meet the blood donation demands our country has. The American Red Cross and the millions of people they save need your help. Across the nation, approximately 44,000 blood donations are needed per day for patients going through surgery, cancer, trauma and other treatments.¹ To raise awareness, the American Red Cross has set out to make January National Blood Donor month to recognize the need for healthy individuals to give blood. Each year, almost 11 million people give blood¹ and you can easily be one of them! It takes roughly one hour of your time and makes a huge impact on so many patients’ lives.

Information for Minnesota blood donors:

Minneapolis Area Blood Donation Center

Phone Number: 1-800-RED CROSS

Address: 1201 West River Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55454

Or schedule online: http://www.redcrossblood.org/locations/minneapolis-area-blood-donation-center

Common Questions & Tips:

“How do I know if I’m eligible to donate?”

1. Have overall good health
2. Be 17-years-old, or older!
3. Weigh 110 lbs. or more!

For more detailed information, visit http://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements.

“What should I expect from this process?”

1. Go through registration
2. Quick check-up regarding health
3. Have your blood drawn
4. Eat snacks provided for you

See http://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/donation-process for full disclosure on the donation process.

Helpful Tips for Success on Donation Day:²

1. Hydrate yourself by drinking lots of water before your donation day
2. Bring two forms of I.D.
3. Eat healthy prior to donating
4. Wear a loose top so they can access your elbow
5. Bring your list of medications with you to the donation just in case
6. Reschedule the donation appointment if you are not feeling your best that day

How you can help in ways besides donating blood:

1. Put together a blood drive at your work or school
2. Offer to help at a blood drive
3. Encourage your friends and family to donate and even offer to go with them!
4. Hold a fundraiser for the American Red Cross

Remember, donating blood takes only one hour out of your day & makes a huge impact on so many patients’ lives. For more information or to schedule an appointment visit: www.redcrossblood.org.

Live Your Life Donating!

Dr. Eva Norman
President & Founder
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Live Your Life^TM

Bringing Physical Therapy & Wellness to You!

References:

¹ January is National Blood Donor Month. http://www.redcrossblood.org/news/southeasternmichigan/national-blood-donor-month
Accessed on January 15, 2017.

² Donating 101. http://www.redcrossblood.org/students/donating-101. Accessed on January 15, 2017.