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That’s just one of the reasons that National Blood Donor Month, which has taken place each January since 1970, is such an important observance.

Donating blood saves many lives and improves health for many people. According to the World Health Organization, “blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person — the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components — red cells, platelets and plasma.” Let’s learn more.

Blood donations typically drop off during and immediately after the winter holidays, which makes National Blood Donor Month in January a critical time for the blood supply. Busy schedules, holiday breaks from school, inclement weather and winter illnesses contribute to fewer blood and platelet donations.

Since December, severe winter weather has forced facilities to cancel dozens of blood drives, leaving hundreds of donations uncollected. This poses quite a challenge since the need for blood doesn’t take a holiday nor diminish because a snowstorm hits.

January’s National Blood Donor Month to give the gift of life.