Donating blood can be holiday gift of life

Blood donations are especially critical right now as the holidays approach.
The American Red Cross is working hard to keep up with the demand for blood to assist those dealing with traumatic accidents, chronic diseases and those people impacted by the pandemic.
The next blood drive is Thursday this week at the Chase County Schools auxiliary gym from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The goal is 80 units.
Face masks are required regardless of vaccination status, and if vaccinated, donors must give the name of the vaccine manufacturer.
Only those feeling healthy and well should donate blood, and appointments are strongly encouraged, said Angie Paisley, CCS blood drive coordinator.
Appointments to give blood can be made online at redcrossblood.org, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
    To get a RapidPass on the day of a blood donation, donors should visit redcross blood.org/rapidpass/CCS highschoolblooddrive, complete the questionnaire that day, then print  the RapidPass and bring it with them.
    The completed RapidPass form can be shown on a mobile device, as well, when they come to donate, said Paisley.
    For questions contact Paisley at CCS at 308-882-4304.