“It’s a life-saving blood donation. So this year, leave your worries behind and concentrate on doing something good for someone else,” Nagle urged.
“A blood donation provides a true gift from the heart that can give someone another holiday season with loved ones,” Nagle said. “But blood is only available when generous donors roll up their sleeves. It truly may be the greatest gift someone receives this holiday season.
“On Dec. 22, you can give blood at Sequoyah Memorial Hospital in Sallisaw from 8 a.m. until noon in the hospital’s auditorium,” Nagle said.
In addition, the Red Cross will present “The Perfect Gift,” a three-minute video highlighting the importance of blood donation.
Nagle said, “We hope it will inspire you this holiday season and beyond.”
To view “The Perfect Gift,” log on to redcrossgift.org.
Life-saving blood must be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Nagle said.
“It’s needed for traumas, surgeries, cancer and leukemia treatments, organ transplants and more. There simply is no substitute,” Nagle said.
Hospital spokesman Holly Dickson said, “Because people are busier than normal around the holidays, it can be easy to forget to make time to donate blood. But the need for live-saving blood doesn’t take a holiday. Every two seconds someone in America needs blood. You can help by giving the perfect gift.”
Those who wish to join the Red Cross texting program may do so by sending redcross to 42227. Those opting in will receive emergency inventory notifications, on-going education information or help finding a convenient blood drive location.
To donate blood call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit bloodisneeded.org to make an appointment. All blood types are needed to ensure the Red Cross maintains an adequate blood supply. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with completed Parental Consent Form). New height and weight restrictions apply to donors younger than 19. Visit bloodisneeded.org to learn more.
