Blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person-the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components-red cells, platelets and plasma-which can be used individually for patients with specific conditions.

Thursday, October 11, 2018 between the hours of 2:30 pm to 8:00 pm the Vigilant Hose Company (VHC) and American Red Cross will host a Blood Drive at the VHC Activities Building 17701 Creamery Rd, Emmitsburg MD.

Blood is needed every two seconds. About one in seven people entering a hospital needs blood. Blood is always needed for treatment of accident victims, cancer patients, hemophiliacs and surgery patients. Blood cannot be manufactured. Only 37 percent of our country's population is eligible to give blood, and less than 10 percent of those who can donate actually do donate annually.