We are guessing most people do not know the demand for blood increases around the holidays. We certainly did not.

Mississippi Blood Services says while the need increases in December and January, donations tend to drop off.

“It is more in demand around the holidays,” Susan Ates with MBS said. “But people are less likely to give, because they’re so busy.”

We all probably know someone who has needed blood, and typically family and friends will donate when those emergency needs arise. But fewer of us donate regularly. Maybe we are too busy, or maybe we do not like the idea of  needles.

“Ninety-five percent of the U.S. population will probably need blood at some point in their lives, but less than 40 percent of the population can actually donate,” Ates said.

That 40 percent is important. Not everyone is eligible to donate, but if you are, please consider giving. There are several opportunities to donate in Brookhaven in the coming days.

• Jan. 10:  Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop M office in Brookhaven from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Jan. 12: United Artists Theatre in Brookhaven from noon to 6 p.m.

• Jan. 14: Walmart in Hazlehurst from noon to 6 p.m.

• Jan. 14: City Drugs in Crystal Springs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Jan. 21: Brookhaven First United Methodist Church from noon to 6 p.m.