Steven Holt: “As Americans, one of the many things that we can be thankful for is the high quality of medical care. American…”

“As Americans, one of the many things that we can be thankful for is the high quality of medical care. American technology, physicians, and pharmaceutical companies are often leaders in the development of new and improved healthcare equipment and techniques. But even the most cutting-edge technologies, the best doctors and nurses, and the finest facilities cannot save the life of a person in need of a blood transfusion. A child with cancer, a mother who was in a car accident, or a grandfather who needs an emergency operation--any of these individuals could be saved by a simple gift of blood. Without this vital gift, which I must add is in great demand, many of our patients would not survive. Yet consider the following: Only five percent of people who are able to donate blood do so on a regular basis. And, although donated blood can be stored for up to six weeks, it usually is used within ten days because the demand is so great. Every one of us knows someone--a family member, a friend, a loved one--who has needed, and received a blood transfusion at some point. But there are so many more who are in danger of not receiving the help they need. This is why it is so vital that we make people aware of the importance of donating blood. I take this responsibility very seriously and give blood on a regular basis. Yet, I am only one person. We need to find ways to encourage more.”