Save Lives. Roll Up Your Sleeve

January is National Blood Donor Month.

But during this time of year, many hospitals throughout the country experience a significant drop in much needed blood.

The decline occurs primarily because of the bitter cold weather and snow storms.
Now, area health leaders and even Mrs. Virginia International are stepping up to get the number of donations up.

Rebecca Crosen says blood donations saved her life and now she's working to make sure you understand the impact. A pint up blood can save up to three lives. According to the American Red Cross, someone needs blood every two seconds, and Crosen says you never know if that person may be you or someone you love.

Hospitals in Central Virginia rely primarily on donations from Virginia Blood Services. But the blood shelf supply is so short, there is always a need.

According to the American Red Cross, only 37% of Americans are eligible to give blood, but an even smaller fraction of people choose to donate. In addition to blood donor centers, Virginia Blood Services is holding a number of blood drives throughout the month to increase their stock.