Submitted by Bloodworks Northwest

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season, when the number of donors visiting centers and mobile drives typically declines by 15-20 percent. High school and college students are on break people are traveling and families are gathering.

Bloodworks Northwest counts on the communities they support to help. When it comes to patient needs, there’s no such thing as a vacation. The demand for blood is continuous to support the daily needs of local patients.

People undergo surgeries and organ transplants, emergency rooms treat traumatic injuries and many people receive ongoing blood components for cancer treatment.

Recent tragedies underscore the fact that having blood already on the shelves is essential when unforeseeable emergencies happen.

What better way to honor the spirit of giving during the holidays than by saving lives? Consider donating blood at one of the following upcoming drives.

• Noon-6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 19, Mullis Community Senior Center, San Juan Island.

• 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 20, Eastsound Fire Department, Orcas Island.

• 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 21, Community Church in the Village, Lopez Island.

Contact Sasha Seiden to schedule an appointment, at Sashas@bloodworksnw.org or 360-527-3651.