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We all want that perfect gift for our loved ones at Christmas; the one that shows how much time and effort has gone into the selection. I remember reading, The Gift of the Magi , in Sunday school with Don Umberger. What a beautiful book; Della and Jim, a gift costing $1.87, what could we buy now for that amount? We certainly can't put a price on the gift of our Savior, and His redeeming grace, and we also can't put a price on “the gift of life”; by that I mean both blood donations and organ donations. Blood shortages are a serious and ongoing problem, caused by a variety of reasons, including trauma, surgery, cancer and some other chronic, long term diseases. Blood is made up of 4 parts; white blood cells, red blood cells, plasma and platelets. The red blood cells, platelets and plasma are all saved and transfused to patients, depending on their specific need. Depending on the type of surgery you are having, your surgeon may request that you donate and save your own blood, in case you need a transfusion after surgery. While blood is tested extensively, and is safe to receive, obviously your own blood is the safest. The entire procedure for blood donations only take one hour of your time. If you weigh more than 110 pounds, are older than 18, and are basically healthy, you can donate. You can't contact diseases while donating, and since we have 10-12 pints of blood in our body, 1 pint won't be missed. Eat a good meal before the donation, and drink lots of fluids before and after the donation. You can donate about every 2 months, and since blood is only good for 42 days, you can see why donations are constantly in need. Yes, Mrs. Basehore, I still remember volunteering in the blood bank with you! The next gift of organ donation is something near and dear to me. I have a pin that reads, “Don't take your organs to Heaven; Heaven knows we need them here.” Organs that can be donated include the heart, and heart valves, kidneys, liver, intestines, lungs, pancreas, corneas, skin tissue, bones, tendons, and veins. This is quite an extensive list that can be of help in a variety of illnesses and diseases. Hospitals are now required to contact “Kidney1” whenever a patient dies in their facility. They will determine if a patient meets criteria for organ donation; and if so, contact the family to see if a donation can be made. Some restrictions include; age, cause of death, and pre-existing illnesses. Depending on the organs that are to be donated, the procedure will take place in the operating room, at no extra cost to the family. This is performed just as surgery would be, so a viewing and open casket can still be part of the funeral plans. I know this may not be a pleasant topic to think about, but please discuss it with your family so they know your wishes! If for no other reason, making this decision now will save your family members from making decisions later, at a time of stress and sadness. The easiest way to become an organ donor is to “say yes” when renewing your driver's license. Please consider this wonderful gift, at a time when we are thinking about the perfect gift…. Just say yes! Take care, stay healthy, and Christmas Blessings! Linda |
Copyright Salem
United Church of Christ 2005 |