A blood donation truly is a “gift of life” that a healthy individual
can give to others in their community who are sick or injured.

In one hour’s time, a person can donate one unit of blood
that can be separated into four individual components that
could help save multiple lives.
 
From one unit of blood, red blood cells can be extracted for
use in trauma or surgical patients.
Plasma, the liquid part of blood, is administered to
patients with clotting problems.

The third component of blood, platelets, clot the blood
when cuts or other open wounds occur, and are often used
in cancer and transplant patients.
Cryoprecipitated anti-hemophilic factor (AHF) is also
used for clotting factors.
 
In a recent study supported by the National Blood Foundation

(TRANSFUSION 2002;42:122S), more than 5,000 individuals
who were current blood donors at the time or who had
given blood  in the past were asked why they donate blood.

Nearly three-quarters of the respondents said that they
give blood to help others. Respondents also said that
giving blood makes them feel good about themselves;
supports their local communities and hospitals;
supports their community culture;
and “pays back” society for the times when they or
their families have needed blood transfusions in the past.
 
For all of these reasons and more, donating blood
is a good idea.

To find out more about where to donate blood locally,
use AABB’s locator.

Blood Donation Frequently Asked Questions
The Blood Donation Process
Donor History Questionnaires
Organize A Blood Drive
Where To Donate Blood

Watch Evan's Moms Blood Donation on You Tube