They say it’s better to give than receive, and I couldn’t agree more. Which is why I’m donating my birthday to the American Red Cross!

Blood collection is at an extremely critical level. There is normally a 3 day supply of blood available, but right now there is less than a 1 day supply! That means the next surgery or car accident or birth, or transplant may not have enough blood needed to survive. Did you know that on average every 2 seconds someone needs a blood transfusion? You and I can help with that! Right now I have a friend who is receiving a transplant this week, and I want to help anyone who is in need! With each donation you can save 3 lives! Type O negative is the universal donor because is it is used most frequently in the hospitals and ER’s but only 7% of the population has that blood type. O positive is most commonly needed as well because 37% of the population has that blood type. Please help!

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. It only takes your willingness, 2 pricks of the skin and about 40 minutes to save 3 lives! I know that some of my friends are unable to donate due to health conditions, and that is okay, please consider sharing this link with others so that we can help as many people as possible.

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!