During the holiday season, most people are making their shopping lists, preparing for family events, and picking out presents for their loved ones. There is always so much pressure, at least for me, to pick out the perfect gift for someone. People become crazy during this time of year with Black Friday, the long list of presents to get and making sure you get the right gifts.

But, the real meaning of Christmas and the spirit of Christmas gets lost as people are trampling each other trying to get the best deal on the newest item. When did it become so material?

In my opinion, the best kind of presents isn't about how much money went into it, but how much thought went into it instead. It's so much more special. Along with gifts under the tree, this time together with the ones you love is even more special. Those memories of getting hot chocolate and going on a car ride to look at the lights, singing Christmas songs, watching all the movies (including Hallmark), and just enjoying it.

Although, some of us aren't so lucky to have the same wonderful time. For some reason, we make this holiday about ourselves and what we want, not thinking about those in need. There are people fighting to stay alive. We can do so much more during this season to give back and make an impact in someone else's life that means more than a new handbag.

The list of things are endless: volunteer at a soup kitchen, partake in Operation Christmas Child, find a local child to sponsor, donate unwanted gifts to a shelter, and finally the most important (to me) sign up for Be the Match.

Be the Match is a wonderful organization that helps patients receive life-saving bone marrow transplants. When you sign up for it, you are joining a registry of millions of people who are willing to donate to SAVE SOMEONE'S LIFE! It's an incredible experience. I signed up last year and was matched with a woman. They make it so easy and the process has changed over the years, so it's basically painless.

I would recommend everyone to sign up and join the registry. Eventually, you'll be able to meet the patient and to think that you gave someone their life back is so rewarding. There are so many patients on the list that are waiting for a donor and you could be the one for them.

So think about it. It would be the best Christmas gift to someone this year if you were able to donate bone marrow to save their life.