ABOUT BLOOD
This red liquid carries oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body, and carries carbon dioxide and other waste products back to the lungs, kidneys and liver for disposal. It fights against infection and helps heal wounds, so we can stay healthy.  There's no substitute for blood.  If people lose blood from surgery or injury or if their bodies can't produce enough, there is only one place to turn--volunteer blood donors

Blood accounts for 8 percent of the total body weight.  About 55 percent of the blood consists of a straw-colored liquid portion called plasma.  The other 45 percent is a solid portion composed of trillions of microscopic cells: red cells (44.5 percent), white cells and platelets (0.5 percent).

Click on each blood type to learn more:
Red Cells
White Cells
Platelets
Plasma

Myths About Blood
Click here to see common misconceptions about blood and historical facts.

Past Practices
Blood donation wasn't always as safe as it is now.  Click here to see how it "used" to be done.

Blood Testing
All blood donated is put through an extensive 8 hour testing process to ensure its safety.  Click here to learn more.