CARTHAGE ‑‑ Saving three lives may sound like something only heroes can do. But blood donors are heroes who save three lives with each donation.

These everyday heroes give the blood that benefits patients with cancer, heart disease, organ transplants and even new moms and babies, when required.

Giving the gift of life only takes about one hour ‑‑ and it can also help you, the blood donor, to feel good about yourself. This is the perfect month to get some spring in your step.

Panola Community College is hosting a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday in the parking lot on the Carter BloodCare bus, 1109 West Panola.

For more information or to schedule an appointment time contact Jacque Decker at (903) 363-0432.

Visit carterbloodcare.org and click ‘give life’ to watch videos of personal stories of lives affected by blood transfusions. Additionally, share a personal experience of your own by emailing Carter BloodCare at TellUsYourStory@carterbloodcare.org.

Carter BloodCare urges all blood donors to consider giving routinely. Whole blood can be donated every 56 days. Moms can give blood on behalf of their children. Husbands can donate on behalf of their wives. Anyone can give blood in honor of a person who is special in their life. To donate blood on behalf of a loved one, make an appointment at a Carter BloodCare donor center near you, or donate at a local community blood drive.

Remember to eat a nutritious meal and drink plenty of water at least an hour before giving blood. All donors must weigh at least 110 pounds, feel well on the day of donation, and present a government-issued photo ID each time they give blood.

Potential blood donors may volunteer beginning at age 16 with parental consent; 17-year-olds may give independently and there is no upper age limit for donating blood. For more information on donor eligibility and to make an appointment, call 1-800-366-2834 or visit carterbloodcare.org.