Every two seconds, someone in the world needs a blood transfusion. It makes sense then, that giving blood is one of the easiest ways to save a life. Students will have the opportunity to donate blood when Life Serve Blood Center of Des Moines visits Northwestern College Feb. 5 and 6.
Life Serve’s visits have yielded positive outcomes at NW during past blood drives and visits several times a year to take blood from young donors. According to the Red Cross, 15 percent of all blood donors in the United States are younger than the age of 23.
“There are very generous people around here,” said Professor Ann Minnick, a supporter of donating blood. “I know they are always so grateful for college students.”
Donating blood is a way for students to give back to the community even with their busy schedules and empty wallets.
“It’s an easy way to give a gift,” Minnick said. “Your blood regenerates, and it doesn’t cost anything.”
“I’m passionate about giving blood because I know that it helps so many people,” said sophomore Taylor Studer.
In fact, it takes only 10 minutes to give one unit of blood, and more than 3,000 units are needed every week in the community.
Although giving blood is any easy and nearly pain-free way to give back to the community, there can be side effects.
“The last time I gave blood, I had a hard time walking up stairs, and I felt really tired,” Studer said.
Feeling faint is common after giving blood but usually subsides soon after donating.
“I might feel sick, but it’s someone’s life versus a day of me not feeling well,” Studer said. “I can handle it.”
Studer has given blood five times and tolerates the side effects in order to save lives.
More info:
•10:30 am– 4 pm in the Bultman center Lobby
•ID is required
•Walk-ins are welcome
•Sponsored by Northwestern College
•Nine out of 10 people who live to age 70 will use donated blood during their lifetime.
It is important to know what to expect when donating blood. By following these tips, students will increase the odds of a successful donation:
•Eat a balanced breakfast and lunch
•Drink plenty of liquids before and after
Remember, each donor:
•Must weigh more than 120 pounds.
•Be in general good health
•Have normal blood pressure, pulse, temperature and a hemoglobin screening.
Photo submitted.
