While residents of the communities we serve can count on a safe and readily available community blood supply provided by volunteer donors, some individuals wish to receive their own blood or that of relatives and friends.

Those who wish to donate their own blood in advance of surgery can do so through a process known as autologous blood donation. This has long been recognized as the safest possible transfusion method and, when practical, is ordered by the individual's physician.

For those who are more comfortable having family members or friends donate blood for them before surgery, a directed donation can be made. Directed donations are also conducted under the direction and advice of an individual's physician. Studies have shown that blood collected from directed donors is, on the average, no safer than blood donated by volunteer donors.

If you would like to learn more about these donation options, please speak to your physician or call the Red Cross Autologous Donations Department at 1-800-240- 8169.