Hospital patients depend on blood donations from volunteer donors for the blood they may need for ongoing and emergency medical care. Because February is American Heart Month, the American Red Cross officials say it's a good time to donate blood.

Blood donations help many types of patients, including cardiac patients, who are one of the leading users of blood and blood products, said Tracy Duncan Fox, communications manager with the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the Red Cross. When individuals roll up their sleeve, they help build the blood supply. This is important anytime, but especially during the cold, wintry months when blood donations tend to decline.

Since 1963, the president has proclaimed February as American Heart Month.

Were asking more people, young and old alike, to have a heart and give blood this February," Fox said. If youre healthy and can give, your donation can help make a difference.

During February, donors will be entered into a region-wide drawing to win the following package: Two VIP tickets to the NCAA Sweet 16 and Elite 8 Midwest Regional games at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, March 29 and 31. VIP tickets include early admission to the stadium, food, drink tickets and the chance to meet an NCAA legend, a deluxe corner room at the new J.W. Marriott in Indianapolis for two nights, March 29 and 30, and a $250 Visa gift card to be used for other expenses such as meals, gas, parking andsouvenirs.

Area blood drives

1 to 7 p.m. Monday at St. Teresa of Avila in the Catholic Student Center, 1604 Lincolnway, Valparaiso. Donors will receive a coupon for a free doughnut from Dunkin Donuts.

1 to 6 p.m. Monday at the St. John Township Community Center, 1515 U.S. 30, Schererville. Donors will receive a coupon for a free doughnut from Dunkin Donuts. Go to redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code stjtcommc to schedule an appointment.

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday in the Athletic Building Gymnasium at Calumet College of St. Joseph, 2400 New York, Whiting.Donors will rec be entered into a drawing for a $25 shopping spree. Go to redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code CCSJ or call (219) 473-4323 to schedule an appointment. This blood drive is sponsored by Crimson Wave Athletics Department.

Noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday at Kouts High School in the auditorium, 302 E. College Ave., Kouts. This is a Bleed for the Band blood drive. Donors will receive a coupon for one free taco courtesy of Taco Bell.

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Red Cross urges blood donations during winter months