Give life this holiday season Published Dec. 12, 2008 By Capt. Aaron A. Wilson 92nd Air Refueling Wing Assistant Judge Advocate FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Crowded shopping malls and parking lots; finding the perfect tree at the lot; paying twice the retail price on eBay so your kids can unwrap a Wii Nintendo system on Christmas morning; little else says Christmas day better. The holiday season is about a lot of things, and it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. While getting and giving presents is great, consider giving the most important and special gift - life. When you give blood, you are really giving someone another chance at life. Giving has never been easier or more important. On Dec. 19 the Inland Northwest Blood Center will be at the Base Exchange between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. You can make an appointment ahead of time for quicker service or you can show up any time during the hours for walk-in service. If you have never given blood before, you have nothing to fear. The actual donation portion usually takes no more than 10 minutes and for most people is no more uncomfortable than a shot. As an added benefit the blood center staff will give you cookies and juice afterwards, unlike a trip to the immunization clinic. Make sure to eat and drink water prior to donating. All are welcome to donate blood - military, civilian, dependents, retirees, first-timers, repeat donators. To schedule an appointment or to ask questions contact Capt. Vicki Marcus at 247-4081 or e-mail the captain at vicki.marcus@fairchild.af.mil.