WICHITA, Kan. (Dec. 2, 2013) — The holiday season is here, and with it comes the exchange of gifts among family and friends. For many hospital patients, one gift on their wish list can’t be found at stores: a blood donation.

Blood donations could be the gift of life to people like Lauren McCrary, who was immediately hospitalized after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. She received more than 140 blood and platelet transfusions. Now in remission, she serves as the blood drive coordinator at the high school where she works.

“I can never repay the donors who helped save my life, but I can remind others that giving blood is truly the gift that means something,” Lauren said. “The blood I received has helped me celebrate more holiday seasons with my family.”

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give what could be the most meaningful gift of the season to someone. Appointments can be made by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Junction City will be hosting a blood drive December 18th and 19th at the Municipal Building. On the 18th the blood drive will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on the 19th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m..