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Imagine the ability to save a life all while you sit and go about your day. Actually you can, and not only one life, but possibly save up to three lives. All you have to do is donate blood. There’s a national blood shortage due to the pandemic. 

Many blood drives have been canceled due to illness or staffing, limitations, and severe weather challenges. Blood can’t be manufactured nor stockpiled. It’s only through the kindness of donors that blood’s available. 

No matter your vaccination status, all healthy donors are urged to give blood or platelets. Here are some ways that you can prepare beforehand, eat a healthy and iron rich dinner that either has red meat, fish, poultry, or beans. 

Drink plenty and maybe even extra cups of water to hydrate yourself. Get a good night’s rest. Bring a buddy to donate and support each other after your blood donation. 

Repeat those steps to recover. Drink plenty of water. Eat an iron rich meal. Get a good night’s rest. If you’re nervous about needles, you’re not alone. This life-saving process is safe and only about 10 to 15 minutes long. It’s a mild split-second pinch that you don’t need to worry about.

You can listen to music, read a book, talk to the staff, or simply close your eyes and take a nap. And afterwards you can take pride in knowing you helped save a loved one’s life. Share the love this Valentine’s day by donating blood. 

I’m Dr. David Long, and that was the long story short.