With the occurrence of so many disasters both nature incurred (hurricanes, wildfires) and man-made (mass shootings) I have deepened my resolve to be a regular blood donor. Blood is not as easy to donate as a pocket of change or a couple of bills from your wallet. However it is a VITAL necessity to many desperate individuals. Yesterday I donated after having made an appointment at the Park Road location of the American Red Cross Donation Center. The building was easy to locate and parking was plentiful. The donation area was spacious and welcoming filled with natural light from talI windows. I had made an appointment so there was very little waiting time. The receptionist checked me in and I was on my way. The lab tech was friendly and efficient. She took my vital signs and personal information in a small private area. I had made use of the Red Cross Rapid Pass feature on the Red Cross app so I didn't have to answer a list of questions or read pamphlets related to medications, travel or medical history. The procedure was absolutely painless because the tech was so skilled. I was in and out in less than 45 minutes which is a record time for me! Up until now I've always donated at blood drives in churches or at blood mobile sites. I've waited for up to 2 hours at almost EVERY mobile blood drive I've participated in even with an appointmentThe whole experience at the blood center was SO MUCH BETTER! It took less time and the accommodations were so much nicer than mobile or neighborhood sited. So if you are feeling the urge to do something for the greater good consider blood donation at your local Red Cross Donation Center.