You Can Save Lives!

Blood is one of those things that we just take for granted.  About the only times we really think about the life force that flows through our veins is when we get a paper cut, or get a blood test at our annual physical.

But what if you had a car wreck tomorrow and were injured?  Do you take it for granted that the hospital where you're treated will have an ample blood supply on hand in case you need it?

The truth is, blood is a scarce commodity.  The only way it can be obtained is when it is donated.  It can't be artificially replicated.  According to America's Blood Centers, every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood, and more than 40,000 pints of blood are transfused daily.  Blood centers all across the country struggle daily to meet the demands of the areas they serve.

The good news is one single pint of blood can save three lives and the eligibility requirements for blood donation are surprisingly simple.  With a few exceptions, anyone age 16 or older who meets minimum height and weight requirements and is in good health can donate blood.

LifeShare Blood Center of Shreveport/Bossier City has numerous blood drives scheduled every day throughout the area.  On Monday, July 3rd, they are teaming with Eldorado Resort Casino for a community blood drive.  You can donate anytime between 10am and 7pm in Eldorado's Grand Ballroom.  Refreshments will be served and all donors receive a free coupon to the Buffet at Eldorado.

It only takes about an hour to donate, and an hour of your time can mean a lifetime for someone else.