The summer season is always the most relaxing and fun – sun, sand and plenty of smiles. What many don’t realize is that during the busy summer season, blood donations often decline due to vacation and summer activities, while the need for blood remains constant. The American Red Cross is asking donors to “Cruise Into Summer” by donating blood or platelets.

The campaign, which runs from April 1 to June 30, 2010, gives each person who presents to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross an opportunity to enter a drawing for the chance to win a cruise for two. By donating early in the season, blood donors can donate two or more times during the summer months, helping ensure blood is available for patients throughout this critical time.

Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. The American Red Cross Southern Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to patients in more than 120 hospitals. Approximately 1,200 people need to give blood or platelets each week day to meet hospital demand.

Blood can be safely donated every 56 days. Most healthy people age 17 and older, or 16 with parental consent, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. Donors who are 18 and younger must also meet specific height and weight requirements.

For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org .

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Upcoming Blood Drives:

Calhoun Community

Apr 26, 1p.m. - 6p.m.

205 East Line St

Donation Types: Blood, Double Red Cell Donations

Georgia Cumberland Academy of Calhoun

May 11, 8:30 a.m.- 1:30p.m.

397 Academy Dr

Calhoun

Donation Types: Blood, Double Red Cell Donations

Adairsville Community

May 17, 2p.m. - 7p.m.

102 South Main St

Adairsville, GA

Donation Types: Blood

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