All aboard the bloodmobile
Written by Matthew Thomas, Feb 25, 2013, 0 Comments
“I don’t like needles” or “I’m afraid to give blood” are two of the most common reasons people do not donate blood, according to the American Red Cross.
OneBlood Inc., which brings bloodmobiles to campus every month, gives students a chance to overcome their fears while donating to a valuable cause. The next chance to donate is Thursday, Feb. 28.
According to OneBlood Inc., more than 4.5 million patients need blood transfusions each year in the United States and Canada. Nine out of 10 people who live to age 70 will require a blood transfusion or a blood component transfusion at least once.
The organization says if the number of Americans who give blood increases by just 1 percent, blood shortages would disappear for the foreseeable future. Those who give blood regularly are also at a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.
During each visit to the school, bloodmobiles will sit by the corner of Second Street South and Sixth Avenue North right outside of the Student Life Center from 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Students ready to donate will get on the bus, show their student ID or driver’s license (first time donors must have their driver’s license) and fill out a questionnaire that makes sure it is safe for them to donate. Hemoglobin levels will be checked through a finger prick test to make sure students are eligible to donate.
If all is well, they’ll be shown a comfortable seat from which to donate. Eating a substantial meal and drinking plenty of fluids before donating is highly advised.
“Its a fun and minimally painful experience,” said Anthony Patterson, a student who frequently donates blood. He and Jennifer Four, a nurse practitioner, agree that giving blood is a fun experience that allows one to meet different people. Both encourage more people to donate.
“I have given blood more times than I can count,” said sophomore Sydney Meloche.
She and Megan Sugg agree that knowing their blood is going to someone in need is a great feeling.
OneBlood Inc.’s community relations representative, Nicole Himler, encourages donors to spread the word and bring friends each time the bloodmobile visits. She also feels that adding incentives such as free shirts or movie tickets has increased the amount donors each visit. And as USFSP’s student population continues to rise, future visits by the bloodmobile will likely be met with more donors.
Those seeking more information can visit OneBlood.org. Students will also be able to donate on March 21 and April 25.
