DENVER — Gov. Jared Polis declared Thursday, Sept. 5, as Blood Donation Day in Colorado, according to a press release.
Other state governors have been declaring a Blood Donation Day this week, which is National Blood Donation Week.
The press release said every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion for anything from car accidents, traumas, organ transplants, blood disorders or other medical treatments. An estimated 38% of the population can donate blood, but fewer than 10% actually do.
“Coming out of the last of the summer holidays, it’s especially important to give blood and replenish the supply to meet daily patient needs and to be ready for unexpected events” Vitalant Senior Director of Donor Recruitment Charlie Propernick said. “Blood donations don’t just sit on a shelf indefinitely, often they’re sent to hospitals within just a few days.”
Vitalant, the nation's second-largest community blood service provider, and other blood banks across the country are encouraging active blood donors to continue donating and increase the number of new donors.
Blood donors are encourage to donate at least three times a year. Anyone can donate if they meet the basic requirements and can donate as young as 16 years old with parental permission.
