Ithaca College

Some things can be counted on every holiday season. People will travel more, kids will play more, and -- not coincidentally -- the need for blood will increase. Please help make this winter holiday season a great one by helping with the blood shortage.

Schedule an appointment to donate on December 9 in Emerson Suites between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Did you know that --

• Only 5 percent of the population who can donate blood actually do.
• Your one donation can save up to three lives.
• About 85 percent of the population will require blood transfusion at some point in life.
• Red blood cells are only viable for 42 days.

You are eligible to donate if you meet the following criteria:

Are at least 17 years old

Weigh at least 110 pounds

Have not donated within the last 56 days

Have not traveled abroad since 1980 for more then 3 cumulative months in Great Britain or 6 months cumulative in Europe.

If you have an hour to spare and would like to be a local hero please e-mail smaxwell@ithaca.edu or call 274-7342 to schedule an appointment.

On behalf of hospital patients in the Southern Tier, thank you for your goodwill and generosity.

To improve your donation experience get a good night's sleep the day before. Also, be sure to eat well and drink plenty of fluids on the day of donation.

Contributed by Cindy Smith