Submitted by Bloodworks Northwest

Thanksgiving marked the beginning of the holiday season, when the number of donors visiting centers and mobile drives typically declines by 15-20 percent with high schools and colleges on break, people traveling, families gathering and other activities.

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

As we enter the holiday season of giving, what better way to honor that spirit than by saving lives? Consider giving at the upcoming blood drive.

• Noon-6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 19, San Juan.

• 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 20, Orcas.

• 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 21, Lopez.

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