In April, communities and organizations across the United States will celebrate individuals who have helped save lives by becoming organ, tissue, marrow and blood donors with National Donate Life Month.

"National Donate Life Month is a way to honor those who have given so generously of themselves, and to encourage more Americans to follow their example," CEO for the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross, Sharyn Whitman said. "We want to help support the donors and families, as well as the patients who receive their gift of life."

Nationwide more than 98,000 people are in need of an organ transplant. Each day about 77 people get the organ transplant that gives them a second chance at life. Transplant recipients also need blood products during surgery. Donations of blood, marrow and tissue are vital to saving countless lives and for improving the quality of life for others who are seriously sick or injured. Every day patients across the U.S. need an average of 38,000 units of blood.

Individuals who are least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good general health may be eligible to donate blood. All donors need to present positive identification. In Indiana, teens may give blood at 16 years of age with written, parental consent.

Call (800) 448-3543 to schedule a blood donation appointment or visit IndianaOhioRedCross. org.