Every two seconds someone in America needs blood, including patients across south Texas. Blood is especially needed during the summer season because schools are out and families are on vacation, therefore impacting the community blood supply. The hour it takes to donate is a lifetime for someone in need such as Anita Hoff.

Driving her usual route in Seguin, Texas, Hoff suddenly found her car smashed into a telephone pole by a driver who ran a red light. The accident left her car crushed and Hoff suffering from life-threatening injuries.

Hoff suffered severe blood loss and receive a steady flow of lifesaving blood for two days. She remained in a coma for a week and stayed hospitalized for three months.

“So many people donated for me when I needed it. They saved my life and have no idea that they did,” said Hoff.

Hoff’s presence today is a result of an adequate blood supply. Had blood not been available, her accident might have been fatal. Her life is one of thousands that have been saved by community blood donations.

“I’m not the only one who has received blood. Think about how many lives you could save. I’m a living example of what it can do,” she said.

One in 20 Texans will receive blood at some point in their lives. The unit you donate could save a loved one’s life. Please donate at one of the following area blood drives:

•Trinity Lutheran Church (703 N Main Street in the Fellowship Hall) on Sunday, May 3; 8:00am to Noon

•Blanco High School (1215 4th Street in front of the school) on Wednesday, May 6; 8:30am to 4:00pm

Donors must present identification. It is recommended to eat and drink before and after donating. Anyone 16 years old weighing 120 pounds (with parental consent), or at least 17 years old weighing 110 pounds, and in good general health can donate blood. You can learn more about blood, platelet, tissue, cord blood and marrow donation, or print a parental consent form at www.southtexasblood.org.