This November, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give the perfect gift – a blood donation – to help ensure a sufficient blood supply throughout the holiday season.

A decline in donations occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day when donors are busy with family gatherings and travel. However, patients don’t get a holiday break from needing lifesaving transfusions. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood.

Timothy Sheely’s wife received 12 units of blood products during emergency surgery after the birth of their son.

“If it had not been for blood donors, she may not have survived that ordeal, but thanks to generous blood donors, I still have a wife and my kids still have their Mom,” he said. “I can’t possibly thank those people in person, but I can give a little piece of me back with each donation for the greater good. Thanks to those who are able to donate and choose to donate!”

The Red Cross encourages donors to start a new holiday tradition and bring family and friends together to donate blood or platelets. Donors of all blood types are needed to give this November to help ensure a sufficient supply for hospital patients. As a thank you for donating around the Thanksgiving holiday, all those who come to donate Nov. 24-28 will be invited to download a set of recipes from celebrity chefs.

To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass to save time when donating.

Upcoming blood drives

•Nov. 17, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Southland High School, 203 Second St. in Adams

•Nov. 18, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Riverland Community College, 1600 NW 8th Ave. in Austin

•Nov. 29, 1-7 p.m., Mower County Senior Citizens Center, 400 3rd Ave. NE in Austin