Campus Helps Red Cross Blood Shortage

Managing Editor

Photo by Susan Harmon

Blood Donation - UAM student Rhonda Parrish (left) patiently waits to donate while American Red Cross nurse Patsy Thomas (right) prepares to insert the needle. Parrish started donating blood last year when her son developed a clotting disorder.

   With the recent ice storm in north Arkansas forcing the cancellation of several blood drives, the University of Arkansas at Monticello helped decrease the shortage by donating 72 units of blood during an American Red Cross blood drive Jan. 27.

   The American Red Cross finds difficulty in keeping a supply sufficient for a few days worth of demand even when all the drives take place as scheduled. 

   “When a few blood drives are canceled, a shortage results,” said Terri Richardson, director of Student Health Services.

   The Blood Drive Team consisted of representatives from the American Red Cross, Knights and Lady Knights, Blossoms Basketball Team, University Center Staff, Student Activities Board and UAM Student Health Services.

   The Debate team won the donor competition by donating 15 units of blood followed closely by the Alpha Phi Alpha with 14 units and the Missionary Baptist Student Fellowship with 13 units.

   Richardson said, “Student participation in the blood drive was excellent. Several staff and faculty donated also.”

   Part-time student Rhonda Parrish said, counting this blood donation, she donated one other time in the past. Parrish started donating blood last year when her son developed a clotting disorder.

   First-year student Elizabeth Brown said she donated blood approximately 5 times.

   “I donate blood to help others,” Brown said.

   Drawing winners of $25 declining-balance cards comprise Chris White, Vincent Jackson and Kimberly Johnson.

   According to The American Red Cross Web site, meeting certain criteria allows one to donate blood. Potential blood donors must be healthy and at least 17 years-old, or 16 years-old if allowed by state law. Donors need to weigh at least 110 pounds, and not have donated whole blood in the last eight weeks or double red cells in the last 16 weeks. At the time of the donation, each potential donor discusses their health history with the nurse before donation begins. Each donor receives a brief examination, which includes checking the donor’s temperature, pulse, blood pressure and blood count.

   The UAM campus hosts two blood drives each semester including one with LifeShare and the other with the American Red Cross.

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