January is National Blood Donor Awareness Month. As this month comes to an end consider giving back to those in need. Make a blood donation to help save a life. Right now there is an urgent need for blood and platelet donors. So much so that the American Red Cross is running a sweepstakes competition for 2 tickets to the Super Bowl. Maybe you aren’t that into football. If that’s the case do it for your fellow human. I can’t stress enough how important it is for Black people to donate blood. If you are Black and give blood you help those who suffer from sickle cell disease the most.
African American individuals make up 13% of the U.S. population, but less than 3% of blood donors.
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/blood-types/diversity/african-american-blood-donors.html
Listen I get it. Donating blood can be a bit overwhelming and intimidating for some. Let’s not even get into if you have a fear of needles. Don’t worry, I got you! You can still help and not give blood. You can do any of the following:
- Host a Blood Drive
- Become a Volunteer
- Make a Financial Donation
There are benefits to donating blood too. Did you know that? You get to:
- Receieve a free mini-health assessment by a trained health professional
- May reveal potential health problems
- Can reduce harmful iron stores
- May lower risk of suffering a heart attack
- Can reduce risk of devloping cancer
- May help liver stay healthy
- Can help your mental state
Now that you know all of this, let me tell you what to expect if/when you decide to donate blood. First, you will sign in , show ID, and given some information to read. Next, you answer some questions about your health history and undergo a mini-physical . Then you sit in a chair where they will draw about a pint of blood for about 8-10 minutes. Lastly, they give you a snack and drink to consume. You wait about 10-15 minutes and then you’re free to go.
Let Your Blood Donation Light Shine!
Raise Your Light 