| (July, 2008)
The sun is beating down on us, the thermometer is stuck at 90 degrees and there’s not a breath of fresh air. The dog days of summer are here!
Ancient astronomers defined the dog days as extending from 20 days before to 20 days after the conjunction of Sirius (the Dog Star) and our sun. This conjunction happened to coincide with the worst days of summer, when folks were especially plagued by disease and discomfort. 1
The dog days of summer can negatively affect blood supplies because many people feel it’s simply too hot to leave the comforts of home.
We want you to know the air conditioning is on at American Red Cross blood donation centers and blood drives throughout the region. So make plans to escape the heat by scheduling your blood donation appointment today!
If you are at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good general health, you may be eligible to donate blood. All donors need to present positive identification. For more information or to schedule your blood donation appointment, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).
1 Family Education Network web site, Jan. 2008
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