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Summer is a great time for families across America to hit the open road in search of fun and adventure. However, it is also an important time to help save lives by donating blood with the American Red Cross. And this summer, for three lucky blood donors, giving the “Gift of Life” and summer road trips will go hand-in-hand.

During the “Give Blood and See America” campaign, which runs from July 1 to September 30, 2009, each person who presents to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross may enter for a chance to win one of three $1,000 gas gift cards.

Click here to find upcoming blood drives

The need for blood is constant, but the gratification donors get from giving it is instant. Each pint of blood donated has the potential to save up to three lives. And, by donating blood regularly, donors help ensure that blood is available for their friends and family, as well as members of the community and even those far away, should the need for it arise.

The American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to 103 hospitals and must have 1,600 people give blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand.  Accident victims as well as patients with cancer, sickle cell disease, blood disorders and other illnesses receive lifesaving transfusions every day. There is no substitute for blood and volunteer donors are the only source.

Blood can be safely donated every 56 days.  Platelets can be given safely every two weeks, up to 24 times a year.  Most healthy people age 17 and older, or 16 with parental consent, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (448-3543).