Give blood before giving thanks

As people around the United States prepare to give thanks this month, giving an hour of their time could change a person’s life.

On Tuesday, November 19, another blood drive will be coming to Saratoga with the help of the Saratoga Council of Catholic Women and Vitalant.

In the time it takes to read this article, nearly 100 people will receive lifesaving blood transfusions. By taking just around an hour to donate, a person can do something wonderful. In the southern corner of Wyoming, it takes approximately 500 people a week to donate blood to serve the 47 area hospitals in the region. One out of every three people will need blood during their lives, but only one in 20 people regularly give blood.

“Giving blood is one of the most important, rewarding and compassionate things a person can do,” said Valerie Larscheid, blood drive coordinator. “The blood donation is simple, there is little—if any—pain and it provides the ‘gift of life’ that only human beings can give to one another.”

Blood donors are reminded to eat a salty snack the day before donation and a healthy, low-fat meal within two hours of the appointment. They are also reminded to drink plenty of water during the day to keep hydrated, limit caffeine intake, bring a list of medications and places and times they have traveled outside of the U.S. and a photo ID.

The health history questionnaire may be completed on the day of the drive by visiting www.vitalant.org. Blood donors can print out the ticket and bring it with them to the blood drive.

Anyone interested in donating may call Larscheid at 307-321-8865 or schedule an appointment online at www.vitalant.org. The sponsor code is “toga.”

The blood drive will take place from noon to 6 p.m. at St. Ann’s Parish Hall in Saratoga.