The Need       Who Can Donate       Safety & Testing
Organize a Blood Drive

  Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (in some states, 16-year-olds may donate), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.  Blood can be given every 56 days, or every eight weeks. Plasma can be given every four weeks. Platelets can be given 24 times a year.  People who have spent a total of six months or more in the United Kingdom between 1980 and 1996 are not eligible to donate blood.  America's Blood Centers collect blood only from volunteer blood donors. Learn more about blood donor guidelines.
 
"If you donate blood one time, it helps three people.  So it feels good to know you're helping out.  The coolest part is the satisfaction you get knowing you've helped people - and the cookies aren't bad either."
 
"It doesn't hurt - just a little pinch - that's all.  It's easy...and they gave us free snacks!"
 
"I've always been terrified of having blood drawn and so I wanted to prove to myself I could do it.   And it's going well.  This is something you can do quickly and it really helps people" 
 
"I first donated blood in high school and now 33 years later I've think I've given somewhere between 5 and 7 gallons of blood.  "
 
For more information, read our Frequently Asked Questions.

It's such an easy thing to do. I mean, it's not painful. It doesn't take a long time. It's not a big sacrifice. At the same time, it can help a lot of people.
— Tim
high school student
Welcome | Elementary School | About Us | The Video | Blood Biology | Saving Lives | Science & Research
Resources & Glossary | MBYB Teaching Tools | Contact Info | Order Info

Copyright 2002 - My Blood, Your Blood