Give blood

The need for donated blood never goes away. But the American Red Cross, which sponsors blood drives throughout Southeast Missouri, says a lull when school is out and families are engaged in vacations and other warm-weather activities means fewer donors show up.

This year, the blood supply also has been affected by severe weather. Several drives in May had to be called off.

To all those who donate blood, thanks. For those who have put off donating or have never given blood, this would be a good time to find a convenient blood drive and help save someone's life.

You can get information about blood drives by calling the American Red Cross Blood Services Office in Cape Girardeau at 339-1822.

Or you can find out about Red Cross blood drives anywhere in the country, including those scheduled in Southeast Missouri, by going online at www.givelife.org and entering your ZIP code.

Giving blood is crucial to saving lives. You can help.