ATLANTA--Imagine relaxing at a tranquil mountain resort, complete with beautifully colored leaves, rustic decor and luxury accommodations.

Present to donate blood or platelets with the American Red Cross during the month of October and enter to win the “Fall into Donating” grand prize package, which includes two nights accommodations for two at The Ridges Resort and Club, a mountaintop lakeside retreat, in Hiawassee, as well as a round of golf for two at The Ridges Golf Club.

“The need for blood is ongoing, and we at the American Red Cross need your help throughout each season in order to provide life-sustaining and life-saving blood and blood components to local hospital patients,” said Mario Sedlock, donor services director, American Red Cross Blood Services, Southern Region. “I would like to personally encourage everyone to donate blood or platelets at least once during each season in order to make our blood supply more stable and readily available for all whose lives depend on it. So as you enjoy this autumn season, fall into donating blood and platelets with your American Red Cross.”

Every two seconds, someone in the United States requires a blood transfusion for life-sustaining or life-saving purposes. The American Red Cross Blood Services, Southern Region, provides lifesaving blood to patients in more than 130 hospitals throughout Georgia. About 1,200 people are needed to give blood each week day to meet hospital demand.  

In order to donate blood, one must be at least 17 years old, be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and bring a valid photo ID or an American Red Cross Blood Donor Card.  

Because red blood cells replace themselves, it is safe for most donors to give blood every 56 days.  Platelets, the blood component that enables blood to clot, can be donated every two weeks, up to 24 times per year.  Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit www.redcrossblood.org to learn more about giving blood, opportunities to donate blood or platelets in your area or to schedule a donation appointment.