There’s no way to predict when or where an accident will happen. That’s why the American Red Cross needs donors to give blood during Trauma Awareness Month this May and throughout the year to help ensure that trauma centers are prepared the moment an injured patient arrives.

 In December 2017, Jeff Gosliga was rushed to the hospital following a car accident. To treat his serious injuries, he needed 11 units of blood – about the amount of blood in an average adult’s body.

 “I never had reason to think a lot about blood, where it came from or how it arrived at hospitals; my accident changed all of that,” said Gosliga. “It was touch-and-go for a while, and because the blood that I needed was available, I’m here today. I am so grateful to all of the volunteer blood donors who give of themselves so generously. I will never forget them or take blood donation for granted again.”

 Donors of all blood types are urged to give now to help meet the needs of trauma patients and others with serious medical conditions. Make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

 In thanks, all those who come to donate blood, platelets or plasma with the Red Cross now through June 10 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email. (Restrictions apply; see amazon.com/gc-legal. More information and details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Together.)

Upcoming blood donation opportunities

Ellinwood - Thursday, May 2, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Ellinwood District Hospital, 605 N. Main

Great Bend - Friday, May 3, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Prince of Peace Parish Center, 4124 Broadway; Wednesday, May 15, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., River Bend Assisted Living, 3820 Broadway Ave.; Friday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Medicalodges, 1401 Cherry Lane; Monday, May 20, 11:15 a.m. to 6 p.m., St Rose Auditorium, 1412 Baker Ave.