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Published: 14 September 2016 14 September 2016

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. There is no better way to help those struggling with these diseases than to give blood. Blood transfusions can save so many lives.

In the laboratory, whole blood is separated into components. This allows each blood donation to be used to help several patients. Red blood cells and platelets are important weapons against cancers of the blood. Red blood cells are also used for surgery patients in general, while plasma is crucial in the treatment of trauma. Those suffering from hemophilia, a disorder in which the blood does not clot properly, may be treated with a component called cryoprecipitate.

Each of these components has a limited shelf life. Blood can be stored for only 42 days. Platelets, on the other hand, cannot be stored for longer than 5 days. To keep the stores fresh for every patient who needs them, donors are continually needed.

Make your convenient appointment to give blood at www.UnitedBloodServices.org or by calling (575) 527-1322. With each donation, donors receive a free total cholesterol test and earn points in United Blood Services' Hero in Me rewards program.

Western New Mexico University
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Billy Casper Wellness Center
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Gila Regional Medical Center
Thursday, September 22, 2016
9:30 am to 12:30 pm