Did you know that there is a blood drive happening right here on campus this week? Starting tomorrow ( Wednesday) at 10 am, Red Cross will be in the Pacific Room awaiting student/staff donors.

If you have never donated blood before, there is no reason to worry about it. It is a very simple process, and it does not hurt as much as you may think. The phlebotomists (people taking your blood) are highly skilled in their field. Besides that, it is done very quickly.

It is important that you stay very hydrated on your donation day, and make sure that you have eaten iron-rich foods as the process of blood draw can make you light-headed. After the procedure, refrain from heavy lifting–try not to strain yourself.

Roughly 1 pint of blood of the approximate 10 in your body is donated at one time which after donation goes on to hospitals to be put on reserve for patients who need it. For such a small price, you can save a life. It really is such a wonderful opportunity.

Whether you are a repeating donor or a first time donor, I hope to see you in the Pacific Room saving lives this week. It’s truly a gift that we have the ability to help people in need.