As the school year starts, the fall blood drive draws near. Hosted by the American Red Cross and Order of Omega, the drive takes place Sept. 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the MUB ballroom. The American Red Cross is asking for blood donors with the blood type O+ and O- to donate due to the nationwide blood shortage. They are asking for that specific blood type due to the ability for it to be donated to anyone with any blood type. This drive is a perfect way to find out your blood type as well as do well for the community.
“It’s nice when people just give blood, so that way, it’s a resource that’s there, so when there are emergencies, people can use it,” said Addison Jeltema, president of Order of Omega and the organizer of this event. The blood drive also helps to promote a stronger connection between students in Greek life and the community through volunteering and project setup.
The American Red Cross says that “a few minutes of facing your fears…you may find that the satisfaction makes it worth it”. The American Red Cross also provides tips for a safe donation, such as being well-rested and eating iron-rich food before donating, as well as eating the provided snacks, and staying hydrated before and after donating. The drive is hoping to receive 185 units of blood from willing and able donors to supply the local blood bank for those in need.
To find out your eligibility and to book your appointment to donate blood, go to https://events.mtu.edu/event/fall-blood-drive, https://www.redcrossblood.org/, or call this number (1-800-733-2767).
