AARP - Segunda Juventud - Give a Pint, Save a Life

Give a Pint, Save a Life

By Marissa Bialecki
Spring 2009

Giving a Gift of Life (August/
September 2006)

Winning the Waiting Game (August/
September 2006)

Not Too Old to Give or Receive (August 2006)
For Marty Martinez, 64, donating blood is one of the greatest gifts he can give. Since 1965, Martinez has donated 24 gallons.

"Every time I give blood, I do so knowing that someone may be helped," says the South Carolina resident.

U.S. Hispanics are particularly sought after as blood donors. That's because 57 percent have type O blood, the universal blood type compatible with all others, but fewer than 3 percent of all Latinos donate.

For information, visit the American Red Cross (English) or Cruz Roja Americana (Spanish), or call toll free 800-GIVE-LIFE.

What makes a good blood donor?

The Red Cross considers you a good donor if:

You are in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds, and have not donated whole blood in the last eight weeks.

You are not taking certain prescription medications, such as blood thinners or antibiotics.

You have not, in the past year, traveled to countries where malaria is found or to Iraq.

Your doctor or local blood bank says you qualify.

Do you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure? You can still donate if it is being treated and is under control.

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