What if your loved one needed blood and no one gave?

As the usage of blood increases and older donors become unable to continue giving for a variety of reasons, new blood donors are needed more than ever before.

Demand for Blood Increasing
Blood shortages have been reported throughout the United States recently. The major underlying reason for these deficits is that demand for blood products has been outpacing local supplies.

Blood usage has increased in the last few years for a number of reasons. Hospitals are performing more sophisticated surgeries. The aging baby boomer and World War II generations are requiring advanced medical care, often supported by blood transfusions.

Tips For New Donors
If a person has never give blood before, there are several things he or she can do to make this simple process even easier.

• Get a good night's sleep the night before your donation.
• Eat a good breakfast or lunch.
• Drink plenty of liquids like milk, juice or soda ahead of time.
• After donating, go about your normal daily activities, just avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.

Foods Rich In Iron
Replenishing your body's iron by increasing your intake of high iron foods or supplements is helpful for the blood donation process. Foods rich in iron include RED MEAT, FISH, POULTRY and LIVER. Other good sources are: IRON-FORTIFIED CEREALS, BEANS, RAISINS and DRIED PLUMS. Eating foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, broccoli and tomatoes, helps your body absorb the iron you eat. Iron is also often included in multiple vitamin tablets.

Donors who have been deferred due to low iron should try to increase their iron intake for two months before attempting to give blood again (unless their physician gives other advice). Then, please come back to a Red Cross blood drive. We will recheck your hematocrit and determine if you are eligible to donate.

Please - be a blood donor!