Give the gift of life

Give the gift of life

To the Editor,

Plant a seed of compassion this spring by encouraging family and friends to become life-saving blood donors. Recent statistics indicate very few Americans are eligible to donate blood. Until recently, 65 percent of the United States population was thought to be eligible to donate; however, recent studies have shown the figure to be closer to 38 percent.

While the need for blood in our community continues to grow, there are fewer and fewer donors to fill the need. You can help alleviate the blood shortage by donating every 56 days and encouraging your family and friends to become blood donors.

If you are not able to donate, recruit someone to take your place, consider volunteering at the drive or assisting the drive coordinator in other ways.

Locally, you can give blood at the next Bourbon County blood drive Monday, April 21, from 12:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Tuesday, April 22 from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Fort Scott Christian Heights School , 1101 South Barbee, Fort Scott. Please call (800) 448-3543 to schedule an appointment. Walk-in donors are also welcome; however, those with appointments will be given priority.

Please help save a life; donate blood.

Tom Byler

Blood Drive Chairman