The gift of life

BANGOR – With the holidays fast approaching, the American Red Cross is urging potential blood donors in Maine to give the greatest gift of all this year – the gift of life.

“Our blood supplies have been so low recently we have been forced to cut shipments to area hospitals,” said Donna Morrissey, director, Maine operations. “Currently, the Northeast division is behind by 1,110 units. We need the public’s help to make up this shortfall.”

Giving blood, Morrissey said, is a heartwarming experience. And this winter, blood donors will have a chance to warm their homes as well. Donors who give blood during a blood drive in Maine through Dec. 31 may enter to win one of four $200 gift cards to help with home heating bills.

The Bangor Red Cross Center, 900B Hammond St., is open for blood donations noon-7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays. Donors who find weekends more convenient also may stop by 8 a.m.-2 p.m. the third Saturday of each month.

Potential blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health at the time of donation. Most medications and medical conditions do not prohibit a person from being a blood donor. To make an appointment to become a holiday hero, call 941-2900.

Massage therapy

BREWER – Thomas McGary graduated on Nov. 12 from the Downeast School of Massage in Waldoboro. He is now a licensed massage therapist.

McGary previously graduated from the University of Maine with a bachelor’s degree in plant science and lived in the Bangor area for more than 25 years. He danced in the Robinson Ballet Co. for 17 years and was a founding member of River City Dance Center. He continues to be active teaching dance in local schools and kick boxing at Gold’s Gym.

McGary said he looks forward to bringing his experience and enthusiasm to the local community. For more information, call him at 949-3933.

E-Gift Shop for ACS

The American Cancer Society has created a new public, nationwide, Web-based e-Gift Shop.

To meet increasing demand for opportunities to purchase society-branded gifts and apparel, the e-Gift Shop sells officially and legally approved merchandise with the American Cancer Society, Relay For Life and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer brands.

Merchandise includes selected clothing, business accessories, writing instruments and sports and outdoor gift accessories. The e-Gift Shop can be accessed through www.cancer.org, by clicking on the ACS Gift Shop link.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.

Bone Health

BANGOR – Topics on the agenda at the next meetings of the Bone Health Group are Osteoporosis and Exercise, 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec, 15; and Yoga and Osteoporosis, 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, Bangor Y. To obtain more information, call Robin Long, 941-2808.