One donation of blood can save up to three lives. And while there is always a need for blood donors, there’s especially a need now. A critical need.

In a article published last week, the Eagle reported that health care leaders are concerned that a continuation of the shortage or future exacerbation may require hospitals to limit certain surgeries.

If you’ve never given blood before, now is the time. If you can give blood, mark your calendar for one of two upcoming blood drives: Monday, Aug. 29, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Cranberry Mall and Sept. 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Butler Memorial Hospital.

According to a fact sheet on the American Red Cross website, every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and/or platelets.

In extreme situations, a single car crash victim can need as many as 100 units of blood. Donations also are used to help cancer patients, OB-GYN patients, orthopedic patients, cardiovascular patients and so many others undergoing a surgery or other treatments.

Some people, including many with sickle cell disease, need frequent transfusions throughout their lives. According to an American Cancer Society estimate, 
in 2022, 1.9 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed. Many of these patients will need blood, sometimes daily, during chemotherapy treatment.

If you can give blood, rearrange your schedule. By doing so, you can truly make a difference.

— TL