Blood Drive Sets Up Near Western Campus Theatre
By Jeremy Hopkins
Western Campus Associate Editor
Photo by Christine Hopkins
On June 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the American Red Cross is at the Tri-C Western Campus Theatre accepting blood donations. (Please don’t bag your own and bring it in.)
Depending on each donor, giving blood takes between 30 and 45 minutes, in addition to the wait line. Paperwork takes most of the time, such as signing disclosures, securing releases, providing medical history, and so forth. The actual amount of time extracting the blood is closer to 10 minutes.
After you’ve donated, the Red Cross has a canteen area set up for you to select your snack and beverage of choice to recuperate. Please take it easy for a few minutes, and get used to the way you feel now.
It takes 56 days before your body has regenerated enough blood to donate again. The Red Cross website (www.redcross.org) has several tips on preparing to donate, including advice for first-time donors.
Some key factors include drinking plenty of water before donating; eating a healthy meal instead of a fatty one; being over 17 years old and weighing more than 110 pounds; and, wearing clothing that can be rolled up over the elbow without constricting.
Photo by Christine Hopkins
Not going to make it today? That’s alright, because they will be back again, or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE for donation locations in your area.
