Every 2 seconds an individual is in need of blood. Holiday or no holiday, every 2 seconds an individual is in need of blood. Who is there to fill that need?The Ellijay Lions Club has hosted American Red Cross Blood Drives since 1997 with great impact. The blood drive from July 11th set a goal of 96 units of blood. After the doors closed it was revealed that 113 units of blood were given which means up to 339 patients are able to receive blood products.

The national average of those that donate blood is 1.5 times a year. While the American Red Cross is grateful for those that donate they are always in need of others to step up and donate. Blood supplies tend to run low during the summer and holidays.

There are several ways to find out when and where to donate. Go to www.RedCrossBlood.org. There you can type in your zip code to find the next opportunity for you to donate blood. Or if you prefer to talk to a live person call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Once you have found your next opportunity to give blood here are a few suggestions for a few days prior to donating blood:

1. Eat well. Fresh vegetables and fruit are a must.
2. Hydrate with caffeine free liquids.
3. Sleep well.
4. No heavy lifting afterwards.

You can donate blood every other month. It is useful to remember donating blood by associating it with something that you do on a routine basis (oil changes or a specific holiday).

The next blood drive is set attentively for September 12 from noon to 5:00 at the Ellijay Lions Club located on 1729 South Main Street in Ellijay. Come out a give the gift of life to someone in need!