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DATE: January 1, 2006
BLOOD DONORS HONORED DURING RED CROSS MONTH
For the American Red Cross, March is a time to say thank you to volunteer blood donors who save countless lives each day. Every year since 1943, the President of the United States customarily issues a proclamation declaring March as Red Cross Month. The tradition began when Franklin D. Roosevelt appealed to the American public to assist the Red Cross during war-time. Today, Red Cross Month has evolved into a celebration of Red Cross volunteers in areas like disaster relief, health and safety training, and blood donations.
"Many people don't realize that blood donors are volunteers who give of themselves and of their time to provide blood products for hospital patients," says Sharon Jaksa, Chief Executive Officer of the Great Lakes Region Blood Services. "We couldn't do what we do without the generosity and commitment of our donors. Red Cross Month is a month-long celebration of those volunteers."
Jaksa encourages all eligible donors to consider giving blood during March, and to check out the various other activities sponsored by American Red Cross Chapters state-wide.
The West Shore Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold the following upcoming blood drives:
Tuesday, March 7 Knights of Columbus Hall 301 N. Jebavy Drive Ludington 12p-5:45p
Wednesday, March 8 West Shore Community College Tech Center Scottville 9a - 3p
Wednesday, March 15 West Shore Chapter Headquarters 1644 W-US Hwy 10 Scottville 12p-5:45p
To learn about additional blood drives in your area, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit www.givelife.org . Blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good general health.
The West Shore Chapter of the American Red Cross is a United Way Member Agency.
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