Student Blood Donors Make a Difference

By Crystal Robinson
Raider Shakedown Reporter

            MURFREESBORO, Tenn. -- Middle Tennessee State University students donated blood during the Red Cross blood drive on Dec. 4 in the Tennessee Room in the James Union building.

Out of an expected 50 students, 25 showed up to make a contribution to the Red Cross blood drive.  These students were prepared to make a contribution that would save lives. 

Water was provided by Red Cross volunteers to hydrate each student who was waiting to give his or her donation. 

 “I consumed plenty fluids and iron-rich foods to ensure I would be prepared to make my donation,” student donor Christopher Wallace said.

            Each donor sat patiently in the waiting area. The first step in the donation process required students to review information about facts associated with being an eligible donor.  Students were asked to show a driver’s license, donor card, or any other form of ID.  The second step in the donation process required students to answer questions about their health history.  Red Cross nurses tested the temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin levels through a blood sample in order to determine each donor’s eligibility. 

            Volunteer Brittany McNeal decided to participate in the blood drive as a donor as well.  McNeal calmly sat still as the nurse cleansed her arm and inserted the sterile needle.  The donation took about eight or nine minutes.   McNeal felt satisfaction after her pint of blood was donated.  The donor was bandaged and rewarded with a t-shirt and refreshments. 

 “I am happy that I helped save lives by doing something as simple and easy as donating my blood,” McNeal said.

            Students made sure to refresh themselves by drinking fluids and eating snacks before leaving the Tennessee room.  Each student was instructed to take it easy by avoiding lifting and getting rest.

            The blood drive held on both Dec. 3 and Dec. 4 did not have the large turnout that volunteers and coordinators were expecting.

            “We were expecting 35 to 40 students on Dec. 3, and only 20 showed up, Donor Recoupment Representative Brittany Durham said.  “On Dec. 4, we were expecting about 50 to 60 students, but only about 25 students showed.  Overall, the blood drive was unsuccessful.”

            Red Cross blood drives are held a few times a year at Middle Tennessee State University. Students and faculty should be on the lookout for their next opportunity to donate blood and save lives!

###