What is Blood?

What is Blood? Seems like a simple question, but truthfully, there are many out there that may not understand the different components of blood and what they do. Here's a quick overview of blood is and how it helps you survive.

Blood cells are produced in bone marrow. Red cells, white cells and platelets are made in the marrow of bones, especially the vertebrae, ribs, hips, skull and sternum. These essential blood cells fight infection, carry oxygen and help control bleeding.

Plasma Carries Blood Cells - Plasma is a pale yellow mixture of water, proteins and salts. One of the functions of plasma is to act as a carrier for blood cells, nutrients, enzymes and hormones.

Red Blood Cells Deliver Oxygen - Red cells are disc-shaped cells containing hemoglobin, which enables the cells to pick up and deliver oxygen to all parts of the body. (Pictured at Left)

White Cells Defend The Body - White cells are the body's primary defense against infection. They can move out of the blood stream and reach tissues being invaded.

Platelets Help Control Bleeding - Platelets are small cells in the blood that control bleeding. They form clusters to plug small holes in blood vessels and assist in the clotting process.

You can choose to donate whole blood (all parts of the blood) or through a process called pheresis. Pheresis is a type of blood donation in which the donor gives only certain blood components, like red blood cells, platelets or plasma. This form of donation takes a little longer as the blood is cycled through the body as the appropriate portions are removed and replaced.

It's winter and the weather is frightful, but it's so delightful to give the gift of life! Give the gift of life this Christmas!