There's no substitute for human blood -- vital for delivering oxygen and nutrients, removing waste, healing and fighting infection. A person's blood can, however, be shared with others.

Every day, thousands of Americans in need of lifesaving blood, including trauma victims and surgery patients, rely on the efforts of volunteer blood donors.

We need a steady flow of blood donors to keep our blood supply stable. Many people are eligible to be donors. The biggest requirement is being healthy.

Approximately 4 million Americans receive donated blood each year; a demand of nearly 40,000 units each day.

Donating blood is a simple, relatively painless procedure that requires a small time commitment. Understanding the steps involved with donating can make it easier for those who may be considering rolling up their sleeves.

In addition to good health, blood donors must weigh at least 110 pounds, be at least 18 years of age or be 16 and have parental permission. Those who are currently taking any medications such as aspirin, allergy medication, sleeping pills and Tylenol are still eligible to donate, as are those who have received a hepatitis B vaccine

More blood donations are needed now than at any other time in our nation's history. The American Red Cross had recently reported that there has been a critical shortage of blood and has forced the cancellation of elective surgeries in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Both the Red Cross and America's Blood Centers, which together represent virtually all U.S. blood banks, reported severe shortages at a season when blood supplies are usually adequate.

Some people say that it's too inconvenient to donate blood. Simply make an appointment for the time that's convenient for you. If the blood center isn't convenient for you, just call a recruitment department and they'll find a blood mobile that is. Usually churches, businesses, schools and civic organizations in your community host bloodmobiles every day of the week.

Giving blood is safe. No one gets any disease by donating. A sterile needle is used once for each donor and then destroyed.

Some people think that they don't have blood to spare. The average adult body has about 10 to 12 pints of blood. You give one pint of blood when you make a whole blood donation, and your blood volume will be replaced within 24 hours.

There is no charge for blood. And prior to donating, volunteers must complete

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