47 Pints @bonfilsdotorg

I gave my 47th pint of blood to Bonfils Blood Center today. This means that next time I give blood, I will get my 6 gallon pin. Since 2003, I have averaged giving blood more than 5 times a year, which is a pretty good since the absolute maximum that Bonfils will let me give blood is 6 times a year.

I happen to "like" the Bonfils Blood Center facebook page, and from time to time I'll see them post a picture of someone reaching some incredible milestone. I'm sure I'll get there eventually, but I am always impressed at the dedication of these people. According to Bonfils' website, Bonfils’ highest gallon donor has donated 75 gallons of blood or 600 pints, saving and enhancing nearly 1800 patients lives. Now, that is impressive!  Actually, I'm not sure the math works out on that.

Apparently, January is National Blood Donor Month. I would have given today regardless, and I know the month is almost over, but if you don't give blood regularly you might as well use January as an excuse to start. It generally takes less than an hour from the time you walk in the door to the time you finish your cookies and juice. It is painless and easy. There are donation centers and mobile buses all over the place and you should be able to find something close. If you live in the Denver Metro area, consider stopping by Bonfils donation page to see when and where you can do it. If you live else where, just Google it.

Personally, I am always impressed with how painless and smooth the whole process goes.

Here are some interesting "Blood Facts" listed on the Bonfils website:

• One whole blood donation can save and enhance the lives of up to three patients. 
• Every two seconds someone in the U.S. requires a transfusion of donated blood. 
• Bonfils’ highest gallon donor has donated 75 gallons of blood or 600 pints, saving and enhancing nearly 1800 patients lives.
• The need for blood is constant.  Red blood cells are useable for only 42 days and platelets are useable for only five days. 
• Blood products are used in a variety of medical treatments including helping kids with cancer feel better and saving the lives of car accident victims. 
• O- blood type is the universal donor.  O- blood can be transfused to any patient regardless of their blood type.
• The most common blood types are O+ and A+. 

Go to "Blood Facts" to read more.

Anyway, there you go. I feel I've done my part for National Blood Donor Month. Just in case you were wondering, they need blood in February too.