April 4, 2003
Urgent Call to Action for MCA-I Members
By Emma Justice
April marks National Donate Life Month. Statistics have proven, that one in three people will require a transfusion in their lifetime. And the need for donating blood is of paramount importance now.
Like many of you in our industry, among other things, I am involved in working or volunteering for non-profit organizations. One of my favorite organizations is the American Red Cross. I serve on the Board of Directors of the Montclair-Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Chapter of the American Red Cross.
Many of you may have heard about the nationwide blood shortage our country is currently facing. I would like to underline the seriousness of the matter:
Without adequate supplies of blood, surgeries have to be postponed and people in need may suffer. In many areas of the country we have dangerously low levels of Rh Negative blood and O Negative blood (which anyone can receive in an emergency).
Therefore, I am urging all of you that are able, to donate blood at your local Red Cross, Church, Synagogue, School or Hospital, as soon as possible and as often as possible. Here’s an idea, be a hero – perhaps you could organize a blood drive with one or more of your favorite organizations. Contact your local Red Cross or hospital and inquire.
So many people wanted to help after the tragedy of 9/11. People were rolling up their sleeves to donate blood in hopes of helping heal the pain of the devastation we all felt. We must realize as a society that every day there are disasters which strike our neighbors, family, friends and community. And we can make a difference! By donating blood we assure those facing illnesses, emergency and elective surgeries that the life giving care they require will be provided.
Here are the facts about donating:
- Blood is perishable (red cells last 42 days and platelets just 5 days) and requires daily replenishment.
- To donate blood, donors must be between 17 and 75 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health.
- Photo or signature ID is required and knowledge of Social Security Number.
- The blood donation process takes less than an hour and includes a free mini medical exam (temperature, iron count, pulse rate and blood pressure).
I am a very proud member of the Media Communications Association International and I am proud of the people in it. We are a community of professional communicators and people who care, so please if you are able, consider donating blood, you could be saving a life!
Check out these sites for additional information:
www.bloodcenter.org
www.redcross.org
www.givelife.org
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