BRYAN, Texas — According to the American Red Cross, blood donations are needed throughout the year and the demand for blood during the holidays coincide with a lower availability of donors due to vacations, holiday activities, seasonal illnesses and severe weather.
The Red Cross in Brazos County is looking to raise awareness and how residents can show support in different ways.
Executive Director of American Red Cross Bryan, Jennifer Young, told 6 News, "there's people everywhere that depend on these life saving products one in seven people that enter into a hospital are gonna need these lifesaving products so this is just one way you can give back this holiday season."
One volunteer, Rick Kattner, has his own blood connection to the Red Cross and his motivation for joining in giving blood. He wants others to know giving back to the community is the best gift this season.
“My dad when he was in the service the American Red Cross got him home for two events with his family, his baby sister was in a car wreck and then his mother passed away, so they made a point to bring him home,” Kattner said. "So I decided it was time to start giving back and I have thoroughly enjoyed it because its such a warm and rich experience."
According to the national website "people can save lives by donating blood."
To schedule your blood donation appointment., call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org, If you are ineligible to give, the agency says encourage others to donate.
"Your donation can help save more than one life, including accident victims, cancer patients and children with blood disorders," the website says.
