Give Blood: Save a Life

  • Published
  • By Capt. Vicki Marcus
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Assistant Staff Judge Advocate
We consider December to be the season of giving. We find ourselves being more generous with our time, our resources, ourselves. But once we ring in the New Year we begin to fall back into our routines, and it becomes all too easy to forget that there are still those in need. Let us take time this month to extend the season of giving by giving that most precious gift - life.

Washington State is in need of immediate blood donors. There is a critical shortage of all types of blood, with the most need for the universal donors, O+ and O-, to step forward and give. In as little as an hour you can make a world of difference to as many as three lives, as each pint of blood is divided into platelets, plasma, and red blood cells.

You will have the chance to help your neighbors Jan. 23 when the Inland Northwest Blood Center holds a blood drive at Fairchild. The drive will be at the Base Exchange from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and all donors will receive a special edition military t-shirt as a special thank you for making a difference in the community. You can schedule an appointment by calling 247-4093 or e-mailing vicki.marcus@fairchild.af.mil.

If you have never given blood before, now is the perfect opportunity to become involved in your community in the most meaningful way. If you have donated before, we look forward to seeing you again.

There are some important things to keep in mind when preparing to donate blood. You must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. You cannot donate blood within twelve months of any body piercing or tattoos, and you may not donate blood if you have donated blood within the last 8 weeks. If you are going to donate, drink plenty of fluids and eat iron-rich food beforehand. If you have any questions regarding restrictions or limits placed on blood donation, contact Capt. Vicki Marcus.

As Air Force members we show our generosity of spirit every day, in ways big and small. This blood drive provides yet another opportunity for us to give of ourselves and make a difference in our world. We hope to see you there.