As the end-of-year holiday season quickly approaches, many people prepare for vacations and spending time with loved ones. While the holidays are accompanied by joyous feasts and get-togethers, many people forget that patients in hospitals still need their help. The American Red Cross encourages everyone who can to give a gift that will make someone truly thankful. A blood or platelet donation will help someone spend time with family and friends this holiday season.

"Thanksgiving is time for family togetherness and being grateful for the things you have. Unfortunately, some people can’t be with their families because they are in hospitals in need of a blood or platelet transfusion just to stay alive," said Randy Edwards, chief executive officer, American Red Cross Blood Services, Southern Region. "Many people forget, in the excitement of the holidays, that the need for blood doesn’t take a vacation."

During the month of November, the American Red Cross is offering blood and platelet donors the chance to win two roundtrip domestic airline tickets, compliments of Delta Air Lines. Donors who come in to give the gift of life between November 19 and November 26 will also receive an American Red Cross holiday snowflake ornament.

Blood can be safely donated every 56 days. Platelets can be given safely every two weeks, up to 24 times a year. Most healthy people age 17 and older, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (448-3543) or visit www.redcrossblood.org.

Dec. 2, Pembroke City Hall, 160 N. Main St., 2-7 p.m.

Dec. 6, Ricmond Hill, J.F. Gregory Park, 521 Cedar St., 2-8 p.m.