The Friendliest Vampires I Know

Unlike most men I am not ashamed of my affinity for vampires – although my favorite ones certainly do not sparkle.

No, my preference for bloodsuckers doesn't lend itself to the adventures of Edward Cullen or Sookie Stackhouse, but instead to the American Red Cross.

Every few months, like clockwork, I receive a phone call from the friendliest vampire asking me if I want to save a life. In truth, I once considered this a nuisance because they call from an unknown number and are very persistent about scheduling a donation.

I suppose it's better than lurking in the shadows waiting to sink their teeth into me like their fictional counterparts might.

But then I was told about my very rare O-positive blood type. This means I am able to donate to anyone with positive-type blood.

I made the discovery about a year ago and have since not missed an opportunity to give. I consider it my responsibility to donate, and I encourage others to do the same.

But often times my appeals are met with excuses of the lamest variety.

My personal favorites: "I don't like needles," "I'm afraid of blood," "I don't have time."

Short of disease, I won't give anyone a pass on giving blood if they are physically able.

Giving blood takes not even an hour of your time and that includes the commute to the donation center. The kind folks at the American Red Cross are also very accommodating for scheduling.

For people who suffer from hemophobia (fear of blood) I recommend bringing with you your neck, two eyelids and a backbone. Most donation centers are equipped with televisions for distractions but the simple solution is to turn your head and not look.

Most people don't realize that the built-in fear of needles and blood stem from our childhood when we were taken to the doctor's office for our annual shots. We remember crying for hours after the shot was over, consoled by a blue lollipop and a cartoon bandage.

But it's time to grow up. Although, after drawing your blood, the American Red Cross does provide cookies and juice for the brave and slightly light-headed.

Every day there are people who are in critical need of blood. The simple act of even showing up once to your local blood drive will go a long way to helping someone in need.

If the prick of a needle is too much pain to bear, think for a minute of the person who needs your blood. What kind of anguish or trauma are they going through to be in need of a pint?

I'm not insisting that everyone go out and become a "Silver Level" member like myself, but at least attend one local blood drive this year.

But if you do decide to become a regular donor like myself, the "Silver Level" does come with a pretty nice pair of American Red Cross sandals.

There is an American Red Cross donation center in Timonium located at 2405 York Road on the third floor. For appointments, call 1-800 RED CROSS.