Cold sweat dripped down the back of my neck as I sat waiting for my turn. The others before me had already been taken and drained. A shining white smile greeted me. It was then I knew I was next…
…in line for the SMSU Blood Drive!

The process for blood donation is a relatively simple one. It starts with registration and receiving a fancy name tag. You then read a pamphlet of literature, wait in line, and get your blood and blood pressure tested. Answer a quick questionnaire to make sure you qualify for that day’s donation, and you finally find yourself on a makeshift table staring down a needle in your arm.
Why the long process? The surprisingly lengthy process is necessary to protect those who receive your blood.

“You’d be surprised by how many people drink alcohol before trying to donate,” seasoned Red Cross volunteer Yoshi told me as I lay on the table while donating my own blood. Yoshi also explained to me a couple of things every volunteer should do before donating their blood.

“Eat meals normally before donating, but try to include iron-rich foods. Drink a lot of water the day before donating.”
The need for blood is a never-ending cycle. Sooner or later, almost everyone will need a blood transfusion. Accidents happen every day that put friends, neighbors, and family members in danger.
Blood goes to more people than just those who have been in a bloody accident. Blood transfusion is a proven way to save the lives of cardiac patients during surgery, and it is not uncommon for premature infants to come into this world needing blood.
Next time the “vampires” come to campus, sign up to donate! Your blood is valuable and can save someone’s life.