(Family Features) Every two seconds, someone in America needs blood. More than 41,000 blood donations are required each day for patients in need. To get that blood, they must rely on the kindness of donors.

Blood centers typically face summer shortages because the nation’s blood supply comes under strain due to fewer donations. To raise awareness of this need, Nexcare Bandages, in partnership with the American Red Cross and supermodel Niki Taylor, announces the third annual Nexcare give program. This nationwide initiative thanks blood donors and encourages others to give. The program kicked off on World Blood Donor Day, Tuesday, June 14, 2011.

Taylor’s dedication to the cause stems from her own experience as a patient in need. In 2001, Taylor was in a near-fatal car accident and required more than 100 units of blood. She credits her survival to the donors and doctors who helped save her life. 

“As someone who owes her life to donors who gave to help someone they didn’t even know, I think giving blood is a critical community service that cannot be overlooked. Currently, however, only about eight percent of those who can donate blood do so each year,” said Taylor. “Through the Nexcare and American Red Cross give program, I hope to educate people about the impact each person can have, and help them realize that helping to save a life is always in style.”

Nexcare will be giving away a collection of five fashion bandages inspired by the latest runway trends and emblazoned with the word “give” to demonstrate how doing good looks good, too. This collection will feature the trend-focused designs of chevron, plaid, gingham, zebra and classic. They will be available for free at American Red Cross blood drives and donor centers nationwide starting June 14, as well as online, while supplies last.

Did You Know?

• One donation can help save more than one life.
• There is no substitute for human blood.
• Eligible donors can give whole blood up to six times a year.
• Every blood donor is given a mini-physical, checking the donor’s temperature, blood pressure, pulse and hemoglobin to ensure it is safe for the donor to give blood.

What to bring to the donation?

Bring your driver’s license or other form of positive identification with you to your donation. You may also want to bring a list of any medications you are taking.
 
Nexcare has launched a new Facebook page where you can easily find a location near you to donate, as well as sign up to receive additional bandages for free by mail. You can also share your story and sign a pledge to donate blood this World Blood Donor Day. Visit www.nexcaregive.com to learn more or view an informational video from Niki Taylor here.

SOURCE:
American Red Cross and Nexcare