During Red Cross Month in March, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to join in its lifesaving mission by giving blood.

Since 1943, every U.S. president has designated March as Red Cross Month to recognize how the Red Cross helps people across the country and around the world. Red Cross Month is a celebration of supporters, who are the face of the Red Cross in their communities and bring hope to people facing emergencies.

Blood donor Timothy Sheely knows the need firsthand. His wife required 12 units of blood during emergency surgery following the birth of their son. "If it had not been for blood donors, she might not have survived," he said. "Thanks to generous blood donors, I still have a wife and my kids still have their mom. I can't possibly thank those people in person, but I can give a little piece of me back with each donation for the greater good."

The Red Cross depends on blood donor heroes across the nation to collect enough blood to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are needed to help those rely on blood products.

Make an appointment to become a hero to patients in need by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Murfreesboro:

Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd. Murfreesboro, TN 37129

3/2/2017: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

3/3/2017: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

3/4/2017: 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

3/5/2017: 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

3/6/2017: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

3/9/2017: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

3/10/2017: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

3/11/2017: 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

3/12/2017: 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

3/13/2017: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.