So many of us across Acadiana are getting ready for Christmas. We are shopping, going to parties and trying to make the season "merry and bright".

United Blood Services, the American Cancer Society, the March of Dimes, and KPEL-FM are teaming up to save some lives, and we are hoping you can help us.

One blood donation saves three lives according to Mitzi Breaux with UBS.

You can even get some great stuff for donating your blood during our "Tis the Season to Pay it Forward".

Each person who donates wil receive the following:

  • A 'Pay It Forward' long-sleeve T-shirt while supplies last
  • A free movie ticket through points in our online rewards store
  • Entering to win a two night stay at Cypress Bayou Casino, including dinner at Mr. Lester's

"Tis the Season to Pay it Forward" will run from December 18 through December 31, and when you donate, you can pick between either the March of Dimes or the American Cancer Society to receive a $3 donation to that organization.

So how do you donate blood? You can call 227-235-LIFE or go to www.bloodhero.com to schedule your appointment to donate blood. You can also go to their location at 1503 Bertrand Drive.

United Blood Services is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Wednesday their hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Friday, their hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and Saturday, their hours are 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

As always, UBS serves 19 parishes, and so the need for blood from the community is constant.

Get a jump on the process by filling out the "Healthy History Questionnaire" at www.UnitedBloodServices.org on the day to you are going to share your blood through a donation.

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