The summer season is always the most relaxing and fun sun, sand and plenty of smiles. What many dont realize is that during the busy summer season, blood donations often decline due to vacation and summer activities, while the need for blood remains constant. The American Red Cross is asking donors to Cruise Into Summer by donating blood or platelets.

The campaign, which runs from April 1 to June 30, gives each person who presents to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross an opportunity to enter a drawing for the chance to win a cruise for two. By donating early in the season, blood donors can donate two or more times during the summer months, helping ensure blood is available for patients throughout this critical time.

There will be a Polk American Red Cross Chapter Blood Drive&bsp; on Thursday, June 3, at 231 Ward Street in Columbus from 2 to 6:30 p.m. Call 828-894-2700 for further information or to schedule your appointment.

All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a cruise for two.

Tryon Estates will hold a blood drive on Friday, June 4, at 619 Laurel Lake Drive in Columbus from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Contact Susie Lindsay for further information or to schedule your appointment.

All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a cruise for two.

Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. The Carolinas Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross provides lifesaving blood to 103 hospitals and must have 1,600 people give blood and platelets each weekday to meet patient needs.

Blood can be safely donated every 56 days. Most healthy people age 17 and older, or 16 with parental consent, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. Donors who are 18 and younger must also meet height and weight requirements.

For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate at a nearby donor center, call 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.