Giving Blood

Did you know that only 37% of the U.S. population is eligible to give blood? That doesn't seem like a lot, but what is even more surprising is that only 5-7% of the total population gives blood. I first heard these statistics on NPR and then today there is an article in the Startribune about it. This information came at a very opportune time for me. As I was leaving Memorial Blood Centers on Wednesday, feeling terrible from my near passing out episode, and vowing silently never to go back, I heard about the bridge accident on the radio. The article, coupled with the news of the bridge tragedy, reinforced and renewed my belief in the importance of giving blood, if you are able. Feeling like shit for a day is nothing compared to the suffering of people effected by the accident and those who are in need of blood everyday of the year. We are all reminded during times like these to give blood, but it is also important to give blood regularly, because people need it everyday.