Becky Watkins donates platelets and plasma with the help of phlebotomist Sariah Kenney at the American Red Cross Blood Donation Center and Lab in Murray on Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. Watkins had adenocarcinoma of the trachea when she was 8 years old. Donating plasma and platelets, which she said takes her a few hours, is Watkins’ way of giving back.

The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood as we enter a new year, those who help may win the trip of a lifetime. Those who donate blood now through Jan. 26. will automatically be entered to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans.

Red Cross added that in honor of January being National Blood Donor Month, the NFL is partnering with blood donation organizations for the sixth year and inviting fans to join their lifesaving efforts.

The American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania is calling for blood and platelet donations to prevent potential shortages during the critical winter months. The organization stresses the urgency of maintaining a steady blood supply as severe weather and seasonal illnesses threaten to disrupt donation efforts.