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Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses and traumatic injuries. This lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation and a single donation can save up to three lives.

“Volunteer donors are the unsung heroes for patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions,” said Shannon Revels, senior account manager for the American Red Cross donor recruitment department. “If you are healthy and feeling well, please schedule an appointment to give now. You never know when you or a loved one will be the one in need. I urge anyone who can donate to take an hour out of their day and give back.”

The actual blood donation takes about 10 to 12 minutes and the entire process from arrival to departure is about one hour. Healthy donors may donate every 56 days.

Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Several upcoming blood drives are set for Dare County:

August 5 – 10 a.m.-3 p.m, Dare County Center, Manteo

August 9 – 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Kitty Hawk

August 10 – Noon-6 p.m., Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Kitty Hawk

August 12 – 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Pitts Center, Southern Shores

August 24 – 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Jennnette’s Pier, Nags Head

August 30 – 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Pitts Center, Southern Shores

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