There are many ways a person can be charitable. People often donate money or volunteer their time, but there is an even more profound and direct way to be charitable that is often overlooked: donating blood.
In conjunction with the American Red Cross, Ben ‘ Jerry’s sponsored a blood drive Thursday in the George Sherman Union, something they should be commended for. Although the company changed hands a few months ago, the new owners have fulfilled the company’s initial promise to carry out the philanthropic tradition of the Ben ‘ Jerry’s corporation.
Statistics show half of Americans are eligible to give blood — donors only need to be 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds and be in good health. Still, only 5 percent donate, according to the Red Cross.
Unless you don’t meet the guidelines or have a strong fear, there’s no good reason not to donate blood. According to the American Red Cross, if every eligible donor gave blood just once a year, the national blood shortage would end. Let’s face it, if you weren’t lying on a table with a needle stuck in your arm, you’d just be sitting around playing Snood anyway.
In addition, the need for blood is rising with the increase in organ transplants. For example, liver surgery requires as much as 75 pints of blood. Moreover, doctors like to have extra blood on reserve in the event of complications.
Perhaps part of the reason one might not donate blood is that one might think one person wouldn’t make a big difference in the larger scheme of things. But a little bit goes a long way. One donation can supply three people with needed blood.
And if you can’t donate blood, organize a blood drive or simply work for one.
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