Associated Students, Inc. will host a blood drive on Sept. 27 and 28 at the University Student Union.
The blood drive will take place in the USU Ballrooms from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
“Students on campus who are healthy should donate blood because it is a passive way to help those who are not as fortunate,” said Brett Watanabe, ASI community service commissioner.
There are a few requirements that are asked before donating blood. Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds, Watanabe said. It is highly recommended that donors drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious meal before donating blood.
Would-be donors cannot have a tattoo that was done within the last 12 months. For people with anemia, a check-up process will determine whether they can donate.
Blood donations benefit patients at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and Miller’s Children’s Hospital, according to ASI. Long Beach Memorial Hospital will be helping at the event.
“Hospitals are always in need of blood,” Watanabe said.
This will be the first of two blood drives for fall 2010 held by ASI. “The first one always has the biggest turnout because students who are new to the campus are excited to donate,” said Kimberly Helm, chief programming officer of ASI.
Donors should set a side up to one hour of their day to donate blood.
“My experience took approximately 30 to 40 minutes, including the paperwork and the actual giving blood,” said Loreal Harper, a senior communications major and past donor. “It’s usually a smooth process because Long Beach Memorial has always been efficient.”
Students will have the opportunity to sign up early, starting this week. ASI will have tables around campus and students can register so that on the day of the blood drive they have priority over those walking in, Watanabe said.
Long Beach Memorial will give a T-shirt to donors.
“I’m excited to give blood,” said Nikita Rambaran, a junior communications major. “It’s nice to know I saved three lives.”