Hi friends!

I hope this day finds you well. It has been a rough year for various reasons, I think we all can agree on that. I have found that when I am sad or angry or feel helpless, taking action to be of service, even the smallest action, is a good first step towards healing.

So! For my birthday I’m hosting a SleevesUp virtual blood drive and asking friends and family to pledge to give blood in the next 90 days. I have an appointment scheduled for February 16. Together, we’ll track our pledges, cheer each other on, and, most importantly, provide a lifesaving gift for patients in need.

I wanted to create this drive as a simple way for us to collectively be of service to our communities in a very practical way, especially now as there is a critical and urgent need for blood donors (especially if you have had and recovered from COVID-19–your plasma could help people currently fighting the virus.) Also, it’s a way for us to do something “together” even though we are all mostly apart. Plus, you can find out your blood type! I donated for the first time last Fall and found out that I am O+.

It is super easy to donate. To get started, make your pledge by clicking the red button above, and then visit redcrossblood.org to schedule your donation appointment online, and voila! You’re good to go (and then, obviously, show up for your appointment:) You can give at a locally hosted blood drive or at a permanent Red Cross blood donation center.

I know not everyone will be able to give for health reasons, limitations due to quarantining, work, kids, etc. So if you can’t (or even if you can!) please consider sharing this drive with your people so we can maximize our reach.

Love and light to you all,
Cat