Give the Gift of Life

Week of December 31, 2007

During the holidays, the blood supply hits record lows. Servicemembers must wait one year after returning from a deployment to donate blood due to traveling to a malarial endemic area. Also those who receive tattoos make them ineligible as a potential donor for one year. During one sitting of blood donation, a donor gives one pint of blood. Blood banks need all blood types to stock their shelves to meet patient care and replenish the military's blood reserves. Before giving blood, donors are recommended to drink plenty of fluids, eat prior to donation, and bring a photo identification card.

Find ways to support and honor U.S. military servicemembers and veterans who protect our security and freedom. Visit the Military.com Support our Troops webpage.