Growing up, I took it for granted when my father regularly donated blood. When he was recognized as a 10 GALLON Donor, although he didn’t wear a superhero’s cape, to those whose lives were saved, or those who were able to keep on living by receiving regular transfusions, he was their superhero. He went on to close in on the 20 GALLON mark which was quite a feat. If you’re heslthy, at least 17 yrs old and 100lbs, you too can save a life or many more.

Although I don’t make the annual bday pubic, this year, since everyone knows, and since my kids the jokesters have a sense of humor and celebrated my 70th ten years ago,   in lieu of gifts this year, I’m hosting a SleevesUp virtual blood drive and asking friends and family to pledge to give blood in the next 30 days. Together, we’ll track our pledges, cheer each other on, and, most importantly, provide a lifesaving gift for patients in need.

To get started, make your pledge by clicking the red button above, and then visit redcrossblood.org to schedule your donation appointment. You can give at a locally hosted blood drive or at a permanent Red Cross blood donation center.

The impact we can make together is the best gift I can imagine! Thanks for helping celebrate my birthday and for helping save patient lives with your generous gift. Please pledge to give blood today!