American Red Cross Month- March 31st

This is it! We are now in the last few hours of 2012's National American Red Cross Month! Just because this month of intense Red Cross promotion ends tonight doesn't mean that us striving to make a difference does! Every month, every day, every hour we have the opportunity to be a hero. Whether you donate at a blood drive or at a fixed donation center, there are always venues for you to donate and make a difference.


I want to end this month on the same note I started with: the most effective statistic that I believe is out there about blood donation because it is truly an eye opener. Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States is in need of a blood donation. As we move through our day, 2 seconds is an unrecognizable amount of time. Despite that fact, 2 seconds of time is very precious to someone who is in need of a blood transfusion to save their life. The amazing thing is that we have the chance to be those lifesavers through our blood donations to the American Red Cross. There is nothing better than that!


I hope you all have found this month's information informative and you now know more about blood donation through the American Red Cross. One of my main goals during my reign is to be a positive advocate for this life-saving organization, and encourage each and every one of you to make a difference through this simple process. Remember, just because this month is over doesn't mean your opportunity to volunteer your time as a blood donor is. It is my wish that you go forth with a committed heart to fully embrace your chance to be a hero through involvement with the American Red Cross.


BE A HERO: DONATE BLOOD, SAVE A LIFE. 

American Red Cross Month- March 30th

It has been such an exciting day! After 3 weeks in the big city of Columbia, I finally got to ride the back roads and come back to the small towns of Hartsville and Manning! Let me tell you, I do love the city, but I will always be a small town girl at heart! I had the ability to visit some of the businesses in Hartsville, spend time with some of the citizens, and make a much needed iced coffee stop at The Midnight Rooster! The remainder of my afternoon was then spent with the wonderful Miss Wade Hampton-Taylors, Alyssa Cumbee, collecting donations for BI-LO Charities! Having fun and making a difference, despite sore feet and legs! It was well worth it.

While in Hartsville, I also stopped by the First Presbyterian Church, which is the venue for my blood drive on May 19th! The plans are set and the preparations have been made! I'm very excited about being able to host this event and I hope that you all find it in your hearts to donate blood! More details will be provided closer to the event. I will also be putting posters up around Hartsville with the information. Be on the lookout for those!


Through the generous blood donations of people just like yourself, the American Red Cross is able to provide blood to over 3,000 hospitals nationwide! That's a lot of lives saved! However, they wouldn't be able to provide for the blood transfusions that take place at all those hospitals if it wasn't for generous donors. The more, the better!


TOMORROW IS THE LAST DAY OF NATIONAL AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH! With that said, don't let your last opportunity to make a difference during the month of March pass you by! Here are tomorrow's blood drives around the state of South Carolina:*
ATP Gunshop and Range- Summerville
Columbia and Florence Fixed Donation Centers
*Dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 29th

I know that since advocating blood donation through the American Red Cross is my platform, it seems like I'm always pushing for you to donate! This month I've been especially persistent, I know. I'm sure there comes a point when you all are thinking, "Well is she ever going to stop?" To put is simply, absolutely not! Even after March is over, I will still insist that you donate just as much as I do now. Why, you ask? The blood bank isn't going to magically restore itself. The need for blood transfusions isn't going to disappear. There will ALWAYS be a need for blood. That is why I will continue to be pushy and persistent.


Even though I'm encouraging each and every one of you to donate, there is an interesting statistic I came across that I wanted to share with you. It's striking, but less than a mere 38% of the population are actually eligible to give blood. So that means 62% of the population can't donate, even if they want to. Now this could be for a number of reasons. Before you make it to the donor's chair, you take part in a survey asking an assortment of questions and a certain answer to one of those questions could rule you out. Your iron level, blood pressure, and other vitals are checked before you donate so any one of those things could prevent you from giving. Other abnormalities in the blood and infections could also keep you out of the donor's chair. Now you may be thinking, "Well how do I know if I can donate or not?" The answer to that is if you aren't sure, just try! You'll never know if you don't simply try. Even if you are told you are ineligible, in my eyes you are still just as much of a hero for attempting to donate. Doing your part and making the effort is just as appreciated, I can guarantee it. 


Here are tomorrow's (March 30th) blood drives in South Carolina:*
Chapin High School- Chapin
Chesterfield General Hospital- Cheraw
*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross Website


Just a quick note! TOMORROW, I will be at the Hartsville BI-LO from 3 PM until 7 PM collecting donations for a local charity! Stop by after work to pick up a few groceries and come see me to donate and make a difference! I hope to see you there!

American Red Cross Month- March 28th

The end of National American Red Cross Month is rapidly approaching. Have you donated blood yet? If not, there are still a few more days left for you to do so and make an impact before this month is over! We've said before that only 3 in every 100 people donate blood. If you don't donate, then why not? People have various reasons, but there are 2 that are very common according to the American Red Cross. The first common answer that people give to the question, "Why don't you donate blood?" is "Never thought about it." We all have a lot on our plates and each day brings something different, but despite all of that, we should think about donating blood! One of the many reasons that I chose this platform is because I don't think there is enough emphasis placed on blood donation. Very rarely do you hear anyone speak of it unless there is a blood drive coming up in your area or something such as that. Through the Miss South Carolina Organization and while serving as Miss Greater Hartsville, I feel like I have been given a megaphone to spread knowledge about blood donation so that despite the lack of publicity that it normally gets, I can be a positive advocate for the American Red Cross and influence people to THINK about donating blood. The other common reason people give is one that I hear extremely often, "I don't like needles." This is the normal reaction I get when I approach someone about donating blood. I'm here to tell you that I was once afraid of them, too! Getting shots was one of my worst fears, but just between you and me, the needle is nothing to be afraid of! I've given blood multiple times, and it's never been more than a stick and a sting! Despite the common misconception, it doesn't even hurt when you are pumping your pint. You can barely tell it's there! So if this is your reason for not wanting to give blood, I want you to remember this next time before you answer: think of the power in that needle. With one simple stick and sting, you are being a HERO. You are saving a life so that the person who receives the transfusion can live to see another day. That alone should be comforting enough.

The beauty of the Miss America and Miss South Carolina Organizations is that they provide young women like me with the perfect venue to be advocates for organizations and platforms that may not get that much attention on a regular basis. It's an honor for me to be able to share this kind of information with you all, extinguishing the misconceptions and comforting you so that you, too, may feel motivated to do something extraordinary. Now, I hope you can say that you will THINK about giving blood and know that there is the power to be a HERO in that needle! 

Here are tomorrow's (March 29th) blood drives in South Carolina:*

USC School of Law- Columbia

Green Sea Floyd's Elementary School- Green Sea

Sumter High School- Sumter

Fairfield Central High School- Winnsboro

Charleston Southern University- Charleston

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross Website.

American Red Cross Month- March 27th

Yesterday, I mentioned that as National Red Cross Month is coming to an end, I want to make sure that you all are aware of your options as far as blood donations are concerned. Whole blood donation may not be for everyone, but there are other transfusable products that you can donate and still save lives! I've already enlightened you about platelet donation, so aside from that and red blood cells, there are 2 more transfusable products that both come from the same source in the blood!


Before sitting in the donor's chair, you have to decide what you would like to donate. One thing that you can decide to donate on it's own is plasma! Plasma in your blood contains an abundance of proteins and it is used for therapeutic purposes. But did you know that there is yet another product that can be derived from the plasma itself? That product is called cryoprecipitate. This product is prepared directly from the donated plasma and it contains fibronectin and fibrinogens, which are blood clotting factors. Why exactly are those things needed? Cryoprecipitate is used to control bleeding or is transfused prior to an invasive procedure to patients with hypofibrinogenemia, or a deficiency of fibrinogen in the blood. In other words, it's used to help the blood clot so patients do not bleed excessively. Personally, I think that is pretty awesome! To be able to donate any component of blood is an amazing thing, but to be able to donate one that has such a specific purpose is even neater! Just as an aside, both plasma and cryoprecipitate don't have as short of shelf-lives before they expire. These blood components are frozen after collection and can be used up to a year after they are donated.


Who knew that there were so many options for donors?! To be able to pick and choose how to be a hero and yet still save lives is the beauty of the American Red Cross. We all have our preferences, and when we each act on them, we are helping others in our own ways. As always, there are blood drives going on tomorrow! Here are March 28th's blood drives in South Carolina:*
Agape Hospice- Camden
Ashley Ridge High School- Summerville
McBee High School- McBee
Aiken Mall- Aiken
*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross Website.

American Red Cross Month- March 26th

With only a few short days left in National American Red Cross Month, it is important for me to provide you with options and for you to fully understand them. I am well aware that whole blood donation may not be for everyone, but through modern advancements and technology, the Red Cross has made other donation possibilities open to you!


In a previous post, I mentioned the process of apheresis and how it works. Just to reiterate, this process separates and collects only one particular component of the blood. One of those components could be platelets. There is a HUGE need for platelet donations. After collection from the donor, platelets must be used within 5 days of donation. Because of the rapid expiration rate and lack of stock, continually having platelet donations is vital. While 1 pint of blood is collected during a whole blood donation, only about 1/4 of a pint is collected and separated out into the various blood components during a platelet donation. Once the blood goes through the cell separating machine and the platelets have been collected, the remaining components of the 1/4  pint of blood are put back into the body. It's that simple! You aren't losing as much blood as you would be if you were doing a whole blood donation, yet you are still saving lives! In fact, just one platelet donation can provide a full therapeutic dose for a patient, or it can even provide for 2 or 3 doses depending on the number of platelets collected! So, if the traditional, whole blood donation isn't for you, you still have a venue through which to save lives! Donate platelets, save a life!


For those of you who may want to be a hero tomorrow, here are March 26th's blood drives across the state of South Carolina:*
Summerville High School- Summerville
SC Department of Education- Columbia
City of Myrtle Beach- Myrtle Beach
*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross Website.

American Red Cross Month- March 25th and a Whirlwind Weekend!

What a weekend! For those of you who may not know this, the Miss South Carolina and Miss South Carolina Teen Class of 2012 just spent the past few days together at this year's Workshop Weekend! To give you a brief summary, Workshop Weekend is...well...a whirlwind of information, excitement, friendship, laughter, note-taking, learning, preparation, and many other forms of fast paced fun! I had a blast and it certainly won't be a weekend I will soon forget! There was something about being in a room with so many beautiful, talented, intelligent young women all at one time that made me feel even more blessed in regards to this position I hold and who I get to share in this experience with. From what I can tell, the next 3 or so months prior to competition aren't going to slow down. Preparations are in full swing for Miss South Carolina 2012 and boy am I thrilled!

Officially, there are 102 contestants total for the titles of Miss South Carolina and Miss South Carolina Teen 2012. That means there are only 102 contenders for the titles for the next year, until the Class of 2013 is introduced. Also officially, there are over 30 million blood transfusions that take place each year. That means that for the next year, over 30 million pints of blood will be used to save lives. Sitting in the ballroom at Workshop Weekend, I thought that 102 was a large number. Then, I took a step back and thought about the Red Cross and the work that they do throughout the year and I realized that 102 doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of the number of lives they save and blood transfusions that are provided. While we are all caught up in the numbers that surround us, I encourage you to take a step back and think outside of our area of the country and consider the number of miracles that take place each year around America as a whole.


If you feel the urge to provide for the 30 million pints of blood that are transfused each year, take the time out of your day to donate! I cannot stress enough that there is no better time than the present! Here are tomorrow's (March 26th) blood drives across the state of South Carolina:*
St. James Lutheran Church- Lexington
Fixed Donation Centers- Florence, Sumter, and Columbia
*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross- March 23rd

What an exciting day! Today kicked off the Miss South Carolina Class of 2012's Workshop Weekend! There is only more excitement to come! This will definitely be a weekend of friendship, a weekend of learning, and a weekend to remember forever! Stay tuned for details!


I still wanted to provide you all with a fact about blood donation, despite the craziness that is ensuing this weekend! If you are Type O blood, have you ever gotten a phone call about donating blood? If you have, it's not surprising! Type O is the most requested blood type! As we discovered the other day, Type O is the universal donor, so that would explain why so much of it is needed! So, if you are Type O blood, you have yet another reason to get out there, donate blood, and save a life!


Tomorrow, there aren't any blood drives in South Carolina, BUT don't forget about your fixed donation centers! Visit the official Red Cross Website for locations and hours!

American Red Cross Month- March 22nd

Throughout this month, we have discovered many different interesting aspects of blood donation through the American Red Cross. From how a blood donation is carried out to how many blood drives are held during the year, there truly are a lot of fascinating facts in regards to Red Cross blood donation! It's thrilling to think that through this month, we have all learned something new about this, and now, I hope that we all have the knowledge to go forward with committed hearts to make an impact in our own way!

Yesterday, we discovered that there are over 200,000 blood drives that take place annually in the United States. If you were like me after you heard that, you probably wondered how many pints are collected if that many blood drives are held. Well, the average number of blood donations collected through the Red Cross each year is around 16 million. Yes, 16 million pints of blood are collected each year!! Can you believe it?! That is such a large number that I can't even to begin to fathom it. Each one of those people is a hero in their own right. Are you one of the 16 million? If not, will you be?

Be a part of the large portion of our population who have already decided to make an impact in their own way! The process is simple and rewarding. Choose to be a hero! Here are tomorrow's (March 23rd) blood drives in South Carolina:*

Wal-Mart- Lexington

Dorchester County Career and Technical Center- Dorchester

Society Hill Town Hall- Society Hill

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 21st

As the month of March keeps dwindling down, I can't help but think ahead! Even though after the 31st National American Red Cross Month will be over, that doesn't mean that the advocation for and support of this wonderful organization has to be over, too! In fact, it means just the opposite! As March comes to a close, another month opens its doors. No, it may not be a month that is dedicated solely to promotion for the Red Cross, but it is a month when more blood drives will be held, more people will need blood transfusions, and more everyday Americans will become heros by giving the gift of life through blood donation.

I think that sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives that we don't take the time to properly identify with what is going on around us. There are blood drives going on everyday, but in the confusion of our own hectic schedules, rarely do we realize that they are taking place! Today, I wanted to share a quick statistic so that you could get an idea of how many blood drives actually happen each year. While we are going about running errands, working, attending classes, and doing whatever else our year encompasses, the American Red Cross is partnering with over 50,000 people who are volunteering their time to be blood drive sponsors each year! Together, the sponsors and Red Cross Representatives coordinate an astounding 200,000 blood drives in America every year! Thanks to their teamwork, countless blood donations are collected and many lives are saved!

When I first discovered this statistic, it was particularly heartwarming for me because this year, I am one of those 50,000 people. With 2 blood drives coming up, I'm beginning to become more and more excited with each passing day. I know the gratification that comes just from being a donor, so I can only imagine what it will be like being both that and a blood drive coordinator! My blood drives aren't until May and June, but as always, there are some taking place tomorrow! Here are March 22nd's blood drives in South Carolina:*

Spartanburg Community College- Gaffney

Lexington Medical Center- West Columbia

USC School of Business- Columbia (on campus, Darla Moore School of Business)

East Shore Athletic Club- Goose Creek

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

Be a Hero: Donate Blood, Save a Life

American Red Cross- March 20th

Spring has officially sprung! Was I the only one who Winter passed by without stopping? This year is already getting hot, hot, hot, in true South Carolina fashion, of course! Don't get me wrong, I love longer days and warmer weather, but it all seems like it has come too quickly. This is just another testament as to how fast time passes us by. If we don't embrace the present and live for the moment, we could blink and in an instant, everything could have blown right past us. That's why I think it is important for us to fully embrace the American Red Cross in the present! March will be over before we know it, meaning it will be a whole year before National American Red Cross Month is among us again. Don't let the opportunities in the present to make a difference and give the gift of life pass you by!


Being a very science oriented person, I find today's fact interesting. Do you know how many pints of blood the average adult has in his or her body? Well, in case you were wondering, the answer is 10 pints. So, how much of your body's blood supply is taken for 1 whole blood donation? That answer, too, is simple. Only 1 pint of the average 10 pints is taken during a donation. That's it! Only 10% of your blood supply is collected in order to save a life! As was stated in a previous post, your body does naturally replenish itself of the blood supply over time. What more could you ask for? The human body is an amazing thing, so amazing, in fact, that you can save a life and keep yours, all at the same time! It's like having your cake and eating it, too! So, there should be no reason to be reluctant to have a seat in the donation chair. Be a hero, donate blood, and save a life!


Just in case you feel the urge to spring into action tomorrow and donate blood, here are March 21st's blood drives in South Carolina:*
C.A. Johnson High School- Columbia
Scott's Branch High School- Summerton
Crestwood High School- Sumter
Trident Tech, Berkeley Campus- Moncks Corner
College of Charleston- Charleston
WMBF News- Myrtle Beach
*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website. 


Don't forget to embrace the present.

American Red Cross Month- March 19th

This week is going to be an exciting one for all involved with the Miss South Carolina Organization! Beginning this Friday, the Miss South Carolina and Miss South Carolina Teen Class of 2012 will be all together for the first time for Workshop Weekend! I can't wait to meet all of the wonderful women who are competing for the titles this year and spend time getting to know each other. This is what this organization is all about! Making new friends, branching out, and sharing our stories is something I am looking forward to. Not only that, but we will learn of the logistics for the pageant this summer as well as many more exciting things! Needless to say, I can't wait for this weekend to roll around, but before all of that, we can't forget that it is still National American Red Cross Month and continue with our tradition of fun facts and blood drive announcements!


Yesterday's fact was in regards to the blood type that was the universal donor. Now, I wanted to share something else with you in regards to that same type of issue that I found interesting. Even though O Negative is the universal blood donor, blood type AB Positive and AB Negative are the universal plasma donors. Why do you ask? Well, it has to do with the antibodies in the plasma. Type AB blood has neither the A nor B antibodies in the plasma, so it can be transfused to someone with any blood type. Another interesting fact about type AB blood is that those that have that type are universal recipients. They can receive any type of blood as a blood transfusion. Just like the universal blood donor, the universal plasma donor is also used for patients in need of massive transfusions or newborn babies with their blood types not yet identified.


Just as a reminder, you have other options than just a whole blood donation! You can donate just different blood components, such as plasma, through the type of donation called apheresis. Most fixed donation centers offer that type of blood donation each day in addition to the whole blood donation option, as well as some mobile blood drives. Whether or not a blood drive or center you are interested in does can be determined using the official American Red Cross Website (the link is provided on the side of this page). With that said, here are tomorrow's (March 20th) blood drives in South Carolina:*
Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church- West Columbia
Johnsonville High School- Johnsonville
*All dates and locations were obtained via the official Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 18th

I don't know about you, but to me, March sure is flying by! That means your time to make a difference this year during National American Red Cross Month is running out! Have you done your part yet?

Do you know your blood type? Well, if you don't, I mentioned in a previous post that if you donated blood, the Red Cross would test it to determine your type and you would be sent a donor card in the mail that tells you which blood type you are! I'm A Positive, but did you know that the universal blood donor is type O Negative blood? Since it is the universal donor, it is the blood type in the highest demand. O Negative blood is used in emergency situations before the patient's own blood type is known and it is used if a newborn baby is in need of a blood transfusion. I'm sure now you can see why there is such a great need for it. Anyone can use it! 

Regardless of whether your blood type is O Negative or not, you should still make a blood donation. Everyone who donates is a hero despite what their type may be! Here are tomorrow's (March 19th) blood drives in South Carolina:*

USC College of Engineering- Columbia (USC Campus, Swearingen Building)

Chester Community YMCA- Chester

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross Website.

American Red Cross Month- March 17th

First off, Happy St. Patrick's Day! I don't know about you, but I was seeing green everywhere I went! Your pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is like a person in need of a blood transfusion's pint of blood. Except, those in need of a transfusion can't depend on luck to bring them their blood! It's up to us, as generous donors, to bring their own bit of gold into their lives!

This week, I placed emphasis on the fact that you can donate blood both at blood drives and fixed donation centers. I'm a number person, so I wanted to provide you with some statistics in regards to the two places where you can donate! About 80% of blood donations come from blood drives set up by different organizations throughout the year and the remaining 20% are donations that take place at the fixed donation centers. This could be because blood drives tend to be promoted more often and effectively or people may not know about the fixed donation centers. Regardless of what the reason is, I feel as if it is my job to promote both! A blood donation is a blood donation, no matter where it takes place! The same protocol is followed and you are still giving the gift of life! 

Tomorrow is Sunday, but there is still a blood drive! Here is March 18th's blood drive in South Carolina:*

St. Stephen's Lutheran Church- Lexington

*Drive date and location was obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 16th

Today has been an exciting day for me! I donated blood for the first time since being crowned Miss Greater Hartsville! Now you may think to yourself what makes that so different from every other time? Well, this was the first donation since I declared "Be a Hero: Donate Blood, Save a Life" as my platform, and now that I'm directly connected to the Red Cross as both a donor and public figure, it is even more fulfilling for me. After any blood donation, the sense of gratification is instant, but it was even more so this time. I'm a firm believer that firsthand experience is the best way to learn, so being able to let people know that I'm a regular donor and putting their minds at ease about the whole process is of significant importance to me. Now I feel complete. I have made my donation during National American Red Cross Month and saved a life. What an irreplaceable feeling! My running total changed to 6 pints of blood that I have donated since I first began. There is nothing like being a hero!

The blood drive I attended was held on USC's campus. Here, I was getting prepped and ready to donate!

 A stick and sting! That's it! 

 Pumping my pint! It takes no time at all!

There's my donation! Have you made yours?

Since I've been through a blood donation today, I thought I would give you all a brief overview about the normal donation process for today's Red Cross Month fact! When you first arrive, you read materials outlining the requirements to donate blood. After that, you go into a cubicle with a nurse and he or she takes your vitals and you answer a short questionnaire. Once all that is finished, you're ready to donate! You're taken over to a donation chair where you have a stick and a sting, then you pump your pint! That's it! Simple, easy, and not time consuming! I know you all can do it!

Tomorrow is St. Patrick's Day, but people who need blood transfusions can't count on luck! They are depending on your donations! Here is a blood drive being held March 17th:

Boiling Springs United Methodist Church- Lexington

Don't forget on your fixed Blood Donation Centers located around the state. Refer to yesterday's blog post or the official Red Cross website for more information about them!

American Red Cross Month- March 15th

We're now halfway through March, which means we only have half of National American Red Cross Month left to go! Since we're at the halfway mark, I wanted to point out something that all of you may not know. Each day this month, I'm posting blood drives that are happening around the state the next day so that hopefully, you will find the time, ability, and willingness to donate blood yourself! It doesn't have to end there, though, after this month is said and done! The fact is, you don't have to wait on a blood drive to come to you! Did you know that there are fixed Red Cross Blood Donation Centers in our state? South Carolina is actually home to 7 fixed blood donation centers! Those centers are located in:

Columbia

Charleston (2 Locations: MUSC and West Ashley)

Florence

Myrtle Beach

Mt. Pleasant

Sumter

Each blood donation center is open at least 4 days a week and their hours of operation vary during the week so that you can donate when it best fits your schedule! How cool is that?! I have all the information regarding days and hours of operation should you want more information about the fixed blood donation centers or you can visit the official Red Cross website (link provided in the sidebar) for information as well! I just think that having these blood donation centers open and available year round enables us a better opportunity to get out and donate should we not be able to catch a blood drive near us. Wouldn't you agree?! So go to a fixed blood donation center and give the gift of life!

Speaking of donating, there is a blood drive here on USC's campus tomorrow and I'm thrilled to be donating! I've set up my appointment and I can't wait to go! For me, a blood donation is an exciting opportunity! The fulfillment that comes after a blood donation is irreplaceable, for it is a wonderful realization that by taking an hour out of your day, you have given the gift of life so that someone else may live to see more hours of their life. It's such an amazing thing!

I hope you have the opportunity to experience that sense of fulfillment that comes from a blood donation! Here are tomorrow's (March 16th) blood drives across the state of South Carolina:*

USC HOSA- Columbia (USC Campus, Russell House)

Fort Mill High School- Fort Mill

Goose Creek High School- Goose Creek

AND don't forget about your fixed Red Cross Blood Donation Centers! They will be open as well!

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

ALSO, just a little tidbit of information I haven't share previously: if you ever see a blood drive that I list and you are interested in donating there, visit the Red Cross website (the link is provided in the sidebar of this page) and follow the directions to make a donation appointment! Walk-ins are accepted, but if you have an appointment, you have a better chance of getting through the process quicker than those who don't.

Happy Donating!

American Red Cross Month- March 14th

Even though National American Red Cross Month will come to and end after the month of March is over, for today's fact, I wanted to provide you with a thought to keep in your mind year round. As you and I go on about our normal, everyday lives, there are people across the nation who are in need of blood transfusions. So exactly how many people each day require a blood donation? The answer is astounding. On average, there are more than 38,000 blood donations utilized daily. That's most likely 38,000 different blood donors who all gave the gift of life through a pint of blood. The people who require the donations are from all different walks of life and could be mothers, fathers, children, grandparents, friends, you name it. You never know who may need a blood donation or when. It's up to you and I to be gift givers, enabling these people to live to see tomorrow and be able to live their live to the fullest. Isn't that an amazing thing? We have the ability to give the gift of life. Why not use it?


Here are tomorrow's (March 15th) blood drives around the state of South Carolina:*
USC College of Pharmacy- Columbia (USC Campus, Bloodmobile at Thomas Cooper Library)
Aynor High School- Aynor
Carolinas Hospital System- Florence
SAIC- North Charleston
Chester City Churches- Chester
Fort Mill Ford- Fort Mill
First Baptist Community- Kershaw
*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 13th

To begin with, I've made some changes to the layout of my blog! I've added links to different websites for you to explore as well as new pictures! I hope that through all of this, you have the opportunity to learn more about me and the organizations I'm representing!

One of my main goals this year is to have an impact on the American Red Cross. I want to be a positive figure who makes leaps and bounds to increase the donation statistics. In continuation with National American Red Cross Month, today's fact is in regards to the current statistics. Currently in the United States, only 3% of people donate blood. That's only a mere 3 out of every 100 citizens! I know that we have the ability to increase this statistic. Through advocation and positive encouragement, I believe anything is possible. If you haven't donated blood previously, try it! It's not as scary as you may think, and there is nothing to fear when you are giving the gift of life! If you have donated blood previously, don't stop! Keep donating and encouraging your peers to donate as well! Through teamwork and determination, we can have an impact and increase the statistics. I'm only the supplier of information and positive encouragement. In order to be successful, we must work together. Don't hesitate! Donate and save lives!

I hope that you make strides to increase the donation statistic! There is no better time than the present to begin! With that being said, here are tomorrow's (March 14th) blood drives across the state of South Carolina:*

Dutch Fork High School- Irmo

American Red Cross Donor Center- Sumter

McLeod Medical Center- Darlington

ACS Technologies- Florence

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross Website.

American Red Cross Month- March 12th

It has been 12 days since the start of National American Red Cross Month and it is by far one of the most important times of the year for the Red Cross. People across the nation are taking the time to make difference in all different facets of this wonderful organization. With my main focus being on the blood donation aspect, it is my goal to be a positive influence and inspire others to follow in the footsteps of so many before who have given the gift of life.

It's only natural to wonder what happens to your collected blood after the donation has taken place. Before the blood is utilized, it takes a trip to one of the 5 Red Cross National Testing Labs. While at the lab, the blood is tested in order to establish blood type and it is tested for infectious diseases. Once the blood has been tested and both aspects have been established, then the donor is notified of their blood type via a frequent donor card if they are a first time donor, and they are also notified if their blood tested positive for an infectious disease. All test results are confidential between the Red Cross and the donor. So no worries there! After donating, your blood donation is in good, capable hands!

Hopefully now  your mind is at ease and you are ready to donate! Here are tomorrow's (March 13th) blood drives around the state of South Carolina:*

All South Federal Credit Union- Columbia (Trenholm Road Location)

Capitol Center- Columbia

Nucor Building Systems- Swansea

First United Methodist Church- Winnsboro

Aynor Elementary School- Aynor

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 11th, and Last Week in Review!

Yet another week has come and gone by in a flash, and with every passing day, I am so very thankful for all the opportunities that being a Miss South Carolina local titleholder has presented me. Not only do I have the ability to be a voice for my platform, I also have the opportunity to meet and connect with many amazing people. Last week for me was Spring Break and I was thrilled to have some extra time to make a trip to Hartsville! I set up a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce and I had the distinct pleasure of spending some of my afternoon with the Chamber President herself, Mrs. Johnna Shirley. Speaking of being thankful, I am truly blessed to be able to represent such a wonderful town with amazing people. Hartsville's southern charm and hospitality really speaks for itself. Mrs. Shirley and I walked around and I was thrilled to be able to meet many different people, from City Hall to Lulu's to The Midnight Rooster. It was then, walking around the streets of Hartsville becoming acclimated to the lively town I will have the honor of representing, that I truly felt welcomed. Mrs. Shirley and the residents of Hartsville made me feel like family and like I had grown up there my entire life. It really made for a pleasant day and one that I won't soon forget. I look forward to furthering my involvement in the Hartsville community as a result of this visit and I can't wait to see what is yet to come! 

In other news, I also have a very exciting announcement! As part of my platform of blood donation, I'm thrilled to announce that I have not 1, but 2 blood drives planned in association with the American Red Cross! This is particularly exciting for me, mainly because I have previously only been a donor and now, having the opportunity to host my own drive will further my involvement and impact in this impeccable organization. The first blood drive will be held on May 19th at the First Presbyterian Church in Hartsville. This will provide a venue for me to meet and connect with more people in the Hartsville area and it will provide a venue for others to save lives! The second blood drive will be held on June 5th at the Cypress Center in Manning in association with The Zone. I'm excited about this one, because even though I'm representing Hartsville, it gives me the opportunity to extend my platform and community service into my hometown. Being able to reach out to 2 places and incorporate both communities is something that is of great importance to me and I'm ecstatic that I have the ability to do so.

Speaking of blood donation, I'm still continuing with my advocacy for National American Red Cross Month. Just as a refresher, each day during the month of March, I will be posting a fact about blood donation and I will provide locations for blood drives occurring the next day. One of the main concerns of people who are first time donors is if losing blood from their body through donating will do them any harm. It's comforting to know that after a whole blood donation, your bone marrow naturally replenishes your body with what you have lost through the donation. Some of those elements are replenished in a matter of hours while others are replenished in a matter of weeks. That's also why you have to wait a minimum of 8 weeks before you can donate again. By that time, your body has been replenished and you are able to give more blood to save more lives! What an awesome thing this is!

With that being said, there are blood donations happening tomorrow! Here are March 12th's blood drives across the state of South Carolina:*

Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church- Lexington

American Red Cross Donor Center- Columbia

*All locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 10th

So it's Saturday night and I know the last thing we are thinking about is blood donation. Regardless, I think it is still important to keep in mind that while we are enjoying our weekend, there are still people in need of blood transfusions. 

Speaking of needing blood transfusions, the average transfusion requires not only 1, but 3 pints of blood. That means on average 3 donors contribute to saving 1 life. So 3 donors had to do their part by donating blood to save 1 life. Because of this, you should donate blood and take your friends with you! The demand alone is reason enough, but add this statistic and you have the best reason of all.

Tomorrow may be Sunday, but there are still people striving to make a difference through collecting blood donations. Here are tomorrow's (March 11th) blood donations around the state of South Carolina:*

Round Hill Baptist Church- Lexington

Leesville United Methodist Church- Batesburg-Leesville

Dorchester Presbyterian Church- Summerville

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross Website.

American Red Cross Month- March 9th

There is always a demand for blood, no matter what time of year it is. Blood donations happen by the thousands everyday and you could be a part of that! All it takes is a little over an hour of  your time and you would be doing your part to save lives! It couldn't be simpler.

Something that I personally think is interesting is how quickly blood donations are utilized after the blood has been collected from the donor. On average, a red cell blood donation is used within 42 days after the donation has taken place. That in itself is a true testament to how much of a demand there is. With a blood donation being used so quickly, it's only natural that more would be needed as soon as possible. That's where you come in! You can help replenish the blood supply! 

Here are tomorrow's (March 10) blood drives around the state of South Carolina.* It's Saturday, so take time out of your day off to save lives with the simple gift of giving blood!

Walmart-Conway

American Red Cross Blood Donor Centers- Columbia, Florence, Charleston, and Mt. Pleasant

*All dates and locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 8th

Once you donate blood once, I have no doubt you will want to donate again. There is nothing that can replace the feeling of joy that comes after you realize that you are a real life hero who has just saved a life, or multiple lives, through the simple process of a blood donation. National American Red Cross Month is a time for advocacy and promotion of the process of blood donation, so that more people will become first time donors and add to the millions of blood donations that are collected each year.

After the first donation, I guarantee you will be curious as to when you can donate again. You can make a whole blood donation every 8 weeks. That means you can donate blood up to 6 times a year! That's 6 blood donations, which means 6 or more lives saved! Yes, I know it's an awesome thing! There are multiple drives held each day around the state, making donation sites accessible. It's only up to you to make the time to visit. Take the time out of your day every 8 weeks to be a hero. Donate blood, save a life!

Here are tomorrow's (March 9th) blood drives around the state of South Carolina:*

Blaney Elementary School- Elgin

Trinity Methodist Church-York

*All donation locations were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 7th

We are officially 7 days in to National American Red Cross Month! Have you done your part to make a difference yet? If not, you still have a few more weeks to do so! Get out there and save a life!

As if regular blood donation wasn't enough, there yet another method of blood donation, providing you a different option to save lives! In addition to the traditional whole blood donation where every blood component is donated, there is another method called apheresis. Apheresis is when just one particular blood component is donated. Through this method, you can donate either red cells, plasma, or platelets separately. So if you don't like the idea of donating a whole pint of blood at one time, you have the option to only donate one component. More options, more choices, what's not to like about that?

Now that you know that you have more options, get out there and take advantage of them! Here are tomorrow's (March 8th) blood drives around the state of South Carolina!*

Staples-Columbia (300 Arbor Lake Drive Location)

Grand Strand Santee Cooper- Myrtle Beach

*Dates were obtained via the official American Red Cross website.

American Red Cross Month- March 6th

Another day of American Red Cross Month has come and gone! Many lives were saved today through the generous donations of people around the nation. Were you a contributor? If not, you still have a chance! March is far from over.

We always hear that 1 blood donation can save up to 3 lives, but you may be thinking how is that possible?! Here's how! There are 4 types of transfusable products that can come from a blood donation: red cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate, which is prepared from the plasma. Just 1 donation can produce 2-3 of these products, all of which can be used separately thus saving up to 3 lives! I don't know about you, but I don't need anymore convincing to get into the donor's seat! Donate blood, save 3 lives!

You can start saving lives tomorrow! Here are March 7th's blood drives in South Carolina!*

Colonial Life Arena- Columbia

Horry County Complex- Conway

*Drive dates and locations were obtained via the official website for the American Red Cross.

American Red Cross Month-March 5th

As I previously mentioned, March is national American Red Cross Month! I'm super excited about this because it provides me with the perfect opportunity to reach out to everyone and raise awareness for blood donation through the Red Cross! Each day, I will be sharing interesting facts and upcoming blood drives so everyone will have the opportunity to donate and be a hero! How exciting is that?! 


Did you know that every 2 seconds, someone in the United States is in need of  a blood donation? That means you have over 43,000 opportunities to save a life each day! Who wouldn't want to be a real-life superhero? Through a simple, painless donation that takes a little more than an hour, you can provide someone with the gift of life! What are you waiting for? Donate blood!


So, where can you go to donate? Well, here's the cool part. I've done the research for you, all you have to do is go! Here are tomorrow's blood drives around the state of South Carolina!
*Tuesday, March 6th
Invista (Lugoff)
North Central High School (Kershaw)
Springfield Middle School (Fort Mill)
Circle Fire Department (Batesburg-Leesville)
Hyde Park Baptist Church (Lancaster)
*All dates were obtained via the American Red Cross official website.


I hope  that I can reach out to many and motivate you all to donate. It is a wonderful experience, fit for a real-life hero!

I've seen it from four points of view!

Through this week of midterms, essays, and packing for Spring Break, knowing that I would be able to make my way back to Hartsville this weekend kept me going! Last night marked another first in my book. Now, I can truly say I've experienced a pageant from four different points of view. I've been in the audience, competed on the stage, served as the emcee, and as of last night, I have had a seat behind the judges' table. I judged my first pageant, Miss Hartsville High School 2012, yesterday and I will be the first to tell you that the group of girls didn't make my job easy! Each and every girl had her own spunk and it was blast watching all of them command the stage with their beauty and gorgeous dresses. When it was all said and done, Sarah Floyd was crowned Miss Hartsville High School! Judging is a totally different experience than any other I've had. It's like being an audience member, yet you have the job of picking the winners. It's a tough, tough job and it really enabled me to obtain the utmost respect for each and every judge. I will have a completely different outlook from now on when I step in front of a panel of judges, for now I have a true feel for how hard their job can actually be!

In true Miss South Carolina fashion, there were some local queens in attendance to support the event, which is one of the main fundraisers for the Hartsville High School prom. A few of us took a moment to snap a quick picture after the crowning of the new Miss HHS, including my Miss Hartsville sister Mika Friday, Miss Pageland Teen Kerri Gardner, and the newly crowned Miss Society Hill Bethany Johnson! Participating in the Miss South Carolina system is really such a wonderful experience, merely because of the family that we truly become. 

Not only is March a busy month in general, it's also one of the most exciting for me and my platform! In 1943, President Franklin Roosevelt declared March as Red Cross Month, the time of year for heavy emphasis to be placed on donations in many forms towards the American Red Cross. With my platform being blood donation through the American Red Cross, this is especially exciting for me! The Red Cross provides an astounding 40% of the nation's blood supply, and it is only through the work of volunteers and generous donors that this can happen! In honor of Red Cross month and in my efforts to promote their wonderful cause as I make my journey to Miss South Carolina, every day during the month of March, I will be sharing facts, statistics, and blood drives with which you can get involved! I look forward to helping make this month one of the most productive months of the year for the Red Cross! For more information on the American Red Cross and blood donations, visit http://www.redcrossblood.org/!