Blood Drive in the MUB Sep. 9 to 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Student Leadership and Involvement (SLI) is collaborating with Order of Omega, the Fraternity and Sorority Life Honors Society, to host this year’s biannual blood drive. This fall’s blood drive is hosted by the American Red Cross and will occur on Tuesday, Sep. 9. and Wednesday, Sep. 10. Eligible donors are able to donate from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. in the MUB ballroom. The continued biannual collaboration with SLI and the Order of Omega helps bring the MTU community together to help those in need. In the past academic year alone, 798 units of blood from staff, faculty, students, and community members have been donated. The American Red Cross is bringing excitement by choosing a country fair theme for the drive!.
Veronica Frystak, vice president of public relations for Order of Omerga, helped to provide more insight on the details. “There will be a pluck-a-duck game in the canteen area where people have an opportunity to win a prize.” It is Frystak’s hope that this themed game will provide a fun incentive to bring more donors as there is a serious national blood shortage. When asked about anticipated donations, Frystak stated, “Our goal is 380 units total. That can be used to save the lives of four to five thousand people.”Frystak also expressed that donating is a good way to get volunteer hours, as well as giving her perspective that “it’s just something that gives you a good feeling in your heart… helping people that need it the most.”
Anyone willing to donate whole blood, male or female, must be at least 17 and weigh at least 110 pounds. To donate Power Red blood – which is the process of donating just red blood cells – donors must meet the more specific requirements listed online. Power Red donors can only donate every 112 days, while whole donors can donate every 56 days.
The American Red Cross anticipates the whole process will take around an hour. With registration, health history, and a mini-physical, the donation process takes only 10 to 12 minutes. After donating, you will be asked to spend 10 to 15 minutes in a rest area where light refreshments will be provided. Light activity is recommended before you can return to normal activities.
This year, the Red Cross is collaborating with Hello Kitty to give donors who sign-up and donate a plush mascot Hello Kitty clip and a surprise sticker pack. To receive the keychain and stickers, it is best to donate blood through a scheduled appointment, but walk-ins will also be accepted. Supplies last for anyone who donates during this time.
The American Red Cross suggests that everyone make an appointment. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767, use the “Blood Donor” app, or visit their website at mtu.edu/student-leadership/service/blood-drives/.
