June 16,1999 number 1872
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Office of the Chancellor
Michael Hooker Chancellor			103 South Building  Campus Box 9100 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-9100 (919) 962-1365 FAX: (919) 962-1647

Someone needs blood every 12 seconds. That someone could be a loved one, a neighbor, or even you. As we all know, donating blood is one of the most important contributions we can make to help others. Unfortunately, only 6 percent of North Carolinians donate blood at this time. However, 97 percent of people who live to be 72 years old will need blood or blood products in their lifetime. This year the contributions of caring blood donors are more important than ever. The American Red Cross faces even greater challenges as they strive to provide a safe and adequate blood supply.

In North Carolina, we have had a blood shortage problem in the past year that can only be corrected with greater participation in the blood donor program. Current blood supply is at a crisis level. North Carolina is a medically progressive area where the population base is growing. Many hospitals across our state are expanding their facilities and programs, thereby increasing the demand for blood and specialized blood products. It is estimated that in our area at least 1,500 donors are needed every day to meet patient blood needs.

I encourage you to please take time from your schedule to help those individuals who so desperately need you. Please also encourage your employees to volunteer or donate. Time spent donating blood is considered work time (See Section XI, page 48 of your Human Resources Manual for details). You can register to donate blood by contacting your departmental recruiter or by dialing 96-BLOOD By participating in our University Wide Blood Drive, you will not only be representing the University's concern and interests in this program, but you will also be providing that valuable gift of life to someone in need.

The need for blood will continue to increase and we, as concerned citizens of the State of North Carolina must meet the challenge of supply. I ask that you meet that challenge on Tuesday, July 27 at the Dean E. Smith Center by donating the gift of life.