More than 80 students attended the blood drive hosted by the Maternal Health Advocacy Club on Jan. 23.
The blood drive was held to honor the tradition of having a blood drive on Maternal Health Awareness Day, Jan. 23.
This tradition started last year when Central Connecticut State University alumna, Emily Cardinale researched how high the maternal mortality rates are in the United States, especially for women of color.
The American Red Cross, an American nonprofit organization, said in an email that blood donations are needed now more than ever.
Lynne Phillips, district manager of biomedical services for American Red Cross said, “ The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years.”
According to the email, over the last 20 years, the number of people donating blood to the American Red Cross has fallen, making it essential to have more blood drives in areas that draw more donors.
Joanne Krekian, a donor recruitment account manager at American Red Cross, said how it is vital to have blood drives on campuses.
“College students make up 20% of donors,” Krekian said. “Young people tend to be more willing to give rather than older individuals. Having a blood drive on campus is a great opportunity for people who have never donated to donate in a safe environment. Donating at blood drives earlier in life sets the stage for people to keep donating and volunteering to the Red Cross. Not only at blood drives but also when the Red Cross responds to emergency disasters in the community”.
Leticia Castro, a junior majoring in computer engineering technology and electronics technology at CCSU said how her sister taught her the value of donating blood.
“My sister received a blood transfusion, and that showed me the importance of donating blood,” Castro said. “I try to do it three times a year. It matters so much every day. Not just during big tragedies.”
“It is not about the free tee shirt or sticker,” Castro said. “But knowing that I saved a life gives me chills and makes me keep donating.”
To find a drive near you, go to redcrossblood.org/give.
