This is the year I turn 40, and as I approach a new decade, my mission is not to let fear get in the way of what I want in life. What separates us from success and our dreams often simply boils down to one thing….FEAR. As I’m embracing this mission, I’m expanding it to my giving. Did you know the #1 reason people don’t give blood is a fear of needles? But letting that fear hold us back from a simple act of giving has critical implications. LIVES. With the number of people donating blood declining and a critical need for it–especially Types A, B & O–on the rise, it’s time to conquer that fear. I donated blood for the first time this month, and after the simple painless procedure (in and out in 30 minutes!), I feel empowered to roll my sleeves up more in this easy act of giving. While we are enjoying a summer of carefree adventures and memory making, somewhere someone is in need of a life-saving gift so that someday soon they can enjoy more memories too. Rolling up my sleeve is the least I can do. Join me in helping the Red Cross save more lives. Call your local Red Cross to set up an appointment today and GIVE LIFE this summer simply by sitting down and rolling up your sleeve.