Holiday Gift Ideas: Blood

It's official: I donated an entire person over the weekend. 

Not literally, of course. But in the past two years that I have been giving blood, Sunday marked my 10th pint. (Humans are filled with between 8 and 10 pints.) 

I was contacted last Thursday by the American Red Cross, informing me of a critical shortage of blood stores in Maryland. I was told that the supply had dwindled down to less than a measly one-day bank. 

Unacceptable. 

I gave up my Sunday morning and a few red cells to the . Frankly, I felt good about it all day—minus the few hours of lightheadedness I experienced after missing lunch. 

A majority of Americans plan to give to charity this holiday season, according to a study conducted by the American Red Cross. The survey shows that despite rampant economic woes, Americans will still reach into their pocketbooks and give a few bucks.

But why stop there? 

If you are physically able to give blood, why not help save a life? (I'm starting to sound like the kind folks who call me every few weeks for a donation.) 

Blood donations don't cost anything. In fact, the more you do it, the more Red Cross schwag you get. I myself have built up a nice collection of sandals, tote bag and a chef's apron. 

But what I really like getting from the Red Cross is the feeling that I've done some good for my Maryland neighbors. 

Will you consider donating blood this holiday season? Have you been affected by some emergency and needed an immediate blood transfusion? TELL US IN THE COMMENTS!