I recently started a new tradition. Maybe it’s part of my mid-life crisis, or maybe it’s just watching a close colleague and friend who’s battling cancer, but  lately I’ve felt compelled to give back in a physical way. So, each birthday I’m granted with continued good health, I’m going to pay it forward through some kind of donation that’s, er, uncomfortable.

This year I spent my birthday making new friends at the Indiana Blood Center. For those of you who haven’t given blood in the past, it’s really not that bad! In fact, I can’t think of a better excuse (besides breastfeeding) to lay back, relax(!!!) and eat those bright orange peanut butter crackers  (the kind your mom used to put in your lunchbox but you know you’re not supposed to eat now) with Sprite while being entertained by a team of phlebotomists grateful to see a new face.

The average adult has about 10 pints of blood in their body. Get this: The average donation of one pint of blood–which takes about 10 minutes–can save up to three lives! It could be someone’s daughter, son, mother, father, or spouse. It could be yours.

If your employer sponsors a blood drive, please consider donating. If not, visit one of the Indiana Blood Center’s many locations. If outside Indiana, find a location near you through the American Red Cross or the American Association of Blood Banks. One hour of your time (from walking in the door through filling your belly with free snacks) = totally worth it to save a life or three.