American Red Cross staff preps equipment before sticking a needle in a donors arm to collect blood on Nov. 6, 2020. Photo by Kilikena Jordan.
Western Carolina University students and local residents saved lives one drop at a time this week.
The American Red Cross held a blood drive at WCU Hinds University Center Grand Room Wednesday, Nov. 4, and Thursday, Nov. 5, from noon to 6 p.m. Donors were able to walk in or make an appointment with the Red Cross app using the RapidPass® feature.
“Western [Carolina University] is one of our biggest accounts [of blood donations] at Western North Carolina,” said Sherry Clontz, Red Cross district manager.
The event had more than 100 donations, which will contribute the 40% of blood Red Cross supplies across the nation. One blood donation can be split to save up to three people. Blood donated will first be supplied to local hospitals but can be used globally when needed.
Elaina Perez, a phlebotomist who performed medical screenings on potential donors, spoke about her cousin that once needed blood after an accident “if people were not donating, he could’ve easily made a turn for the worse… so it’s really important to donate blood.”
WCU junior Leanna Sanford engages in conversation with staff while donating blood on Nov. 6, 2020. Photo by Kilikena Jordan.
Before having their blood drawn, donors received hand sanitizer and had their temperatures taken before entering the Grand Room. Donors then checked in, sat in a waiting area, which was all six-feet apart, and answered questions during a health screening to ensure they were eligible to donate. If eligible, donors were led to the chair where they would have their blood drawn.
The staff ensured donors were relaxed and comfortable through the process by having a friendly conversation. According to Leanna Sanford, a junior at WCU, “[the staff] were very polite… we discussed some other stuff to get my mind off of [the needle].” Sanford donated plasma over 20 times in the past, but this was her first time donating whole blood. “I like donating blood because you’re saving lives,” said Sanford.
Afterward, donors received free shirts, gifts bags and were able to relax for fifteen minutes while eating the snacks provided. Donors could also learn more about their blood using the Red Cross app. Donors could also see where and when their blood is being used through the app.
The American Red Cross usually hosts blood drives at WCU four times a year for two days. According to a customer service representative at the American Red Cross, there are no confirmed blood drives on WCU’s campus for next year.
