Every year Seton Hill University (SHU) holds blood drives throughout the year in hopes of attracting students and faculty to donate. Donating a single pint of blood can save up to 3 lives. A little needle a simple pinch and it’s done.
By: Shellie Polly
Staff Writer
Every year Seton Hill University (SHU) holds blood drives throughout the year in hopes of attracting students and faculty to donate. Donating a single pint of blood can save up to 3 lives. A little needle a simple pinch and it’s done.
“SHU holds about two blood drives per semester,” said Janice Beckage, Coordinator of Health Education and Staff Nurse. “Reason being, to allow the needed 58 day span between each time donating.” On August 26, SHU’s first blood drive of the year was held in the lobby of the McKenna Gymnasium.
Many people made sure to find time in their schedules to donate. And if getting the chance to save lives was not enough, every student that was able to donate also received a $15.00 gift card, courtesy of Central Blood Bank as a thank you for coming out.
While waiting in line to donate, Kristen Kling, a senior, said, “I think it’s great that so many people came out to donate today. It’s a great cause and each person could save up to three lives by doing so.”
Coryn Kalwanaski, a senior, said, “This is my third time donating and it feels great to help out.”
Beckage heard about the outcome for August 26’s blood drive and could not have been happier. “The last one was terrific! Usually we raise around 25-30 units, this time we raised 80 units!” she said.
For many who participated this past blood drive, it was their first time donating, a possibly nerve wracking experience when you have not done it before.
Freshmen Davia Peresolak and Paulina Valdez were there for each other this blood drive and although it was a little nerve-wracking for them, they made sure to help out anyway.
“It’s a great cause,” said Valdez.
“It’s a really good thing to do. A little scary, but I have no reason not to do it,” said Peresolak.
Blood drives are held every day in places that make it easier for people to find time to stop by. “Blood drives can be held just about anywhere, restaurants, churches, malls, anywhere there is room,” said Beckage.
Blood is in high demand everywhere because it is needed every day for people who are ill. One visit, usually no more than fifteen minutes, could save many lives.
The next blood drive at SHU is set to be on October 5 from 10 am-4 pm in the McKenna Center and will be done through American Red Cross.