How many of us have rescued children from burning buildings, lifted injured people from car wrecks, performed the Heimlich maneuver or given CPR to bring someone back to life? A scant few, certainly. But many can be heroes. How? By donating blood.

It's quick, easy and virtually painless (OK, there's that little pinprick that's necessary, but not much else). Eligibility is determined by answers to health-related questions, the answers to which remain confidential. There is no sensation or "feeling" when donating blood. You're comfortable and feel the same upon leaving as upon arriving, except for the added wonderful knowledge that you helped save a life. You can return to normal activities.

The donation takes about an hour and can be repeated several times a year. Talking to a blood donor will confirm there's nothing to fear. There's no health risk -- nothing can be "caught" through a blood donation.

The News & Record prints blood donation sites every Sunday in People & Places. The American Red Cross, 333-2111, is at 1501 Yanceyville Street. The need for blood increases in summer, so please consider taking this simple, vitally important step. You can be the heroic lifesaver.

Patty McIrvin
Greensboro