On this World Blood Donor Day, Ergon’s Dave Pekol, Director of IT Operations, shares the importance of donating blood and how Ergon supports Mississippi Blood Services at our corporate headquarters.

_______________________

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, and our entire country’s blood supply is provided by volunteers.

Giving blood is a good thing to do. Donating provides a way to give of yourself for the sole benefit of helping someone else. You may never know how you saved or improved the life of a trauma victim, a cancer patient or a child with sickle cell anemia.

Quarterly blood drives at Ergon headquarters. There are around 40 volunteers at Ergon’s corporate headquarters who give blood regularly during our quarterly blood drives, but we are always looking to improve that number while encouraging the public to donate blood at their local blood services centers, if possible.

“But I don’t’ like needles!” That’s a common response of people who are fearful of getting shots or donating blood. You may not find too many people who “like” skin pricks, but I challenge you to think about this another way:

If you needed blood right now, would you be worried about the needle prick you’d need to receive it?

A legitimate fear of needles is justifiable and should never be taken lightly. You should always do what makes you comfortable. But if there’s a chance you can comfortably set aside your dislike for needles for the sake of saving lives, please consider donating blood at your local blood center. You can find locations near you here. You never know who may be on the receiving end of your generosity.

_______________________

The next blood drive at Ergon’s headquarters at Mirror Lake Plaza will be held July 14; However, you can donate today, wherever you are. According to Martone and Page (2019), “Blood donors are able to give one pint of blood every 56 days — the time it takes for an adult’s body to return to normal levels.”

Reference: Martone, J., & Page, D. (January 2, 2019). 5 things you never knew about donating blood. Retrieved June 13, 2022, from https://thewell.northwell.edu/feel-good-stories/5-things-you-never-knew-about-donating- blood.