January is recognized by the American Red Cross as National Blood Donor Month, a time set aside to honor the lifesaving impact of blood and platelet donors and to encourage new and returning donors to give during one of the most challenging seasons for maintaining a stable blood supply. Winter months often bring severe weather, packed holiday schedules, and an increase in seasonal illnesses such as the flu and RSV, all of which contribute to fewer donations and canceled blood drives. National Blood Donor Month was first established on December 31, 1969, by President Richard Nixon in response t...