By Emily Hughitt | Howard Payne University will be holding a blood drive through the company Vitalant in the Elliston-Cassle Wellness Center Gym on Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. University Nurse, Martha Brunette, said it is a great opportunity to help others who are in need of blood.
“They are helping to save someone else’s life,” Brunette said. “Sometimes, they may not know who the blood is going to, but they are definitely saving lives.”
Currently the United States is experiencing a blood shortage of all blood types. The blood drive will be helpful to anyone who experiences an emergency, needs surgery, or has a blood disorder.
“It’s very common for people to have different trauma situations,” Brunette said. “It takes a while for an individual to build blood back up on their own.”
Brunette said she is eager to help with the blood drive as it will be a different experience for her as a nurse. She is used to the part of nursing that uses the blood, but she is not used to the blood drawing process itself.
“The blood donation is a different side that nurses don’t see very often,” Brunette said. “I’m really excited about this. This is the first time I’m going to be able to help out with a blood drive, and be kind of behind the scenes. It’s going to be a really good learning experience for myself on the other side of blood donations.”
Freshman kinesiology major, Ty Williamson, has given blood a few times. He believes giving blood is an easy and important way to give to others.
“I enjoy getting my blood taken,” Williamson said. “I have always been good with needles, so giving blood has always been easy for me. I’m happy that I can make an impact on people who are in need.”
Donors will be thoroughly screened before giving blood. This the blood will be able to be used to help another human.
Brunette said she was amazed to hear of all the work and thought that goes into blood drives.
“They screen for different medications,” Brunette said. “If you’ve been on any type of antibiotics, you cannot donate blood. There are a lot of different things I was unaware of when we were receiving blood. It’s quite a large process.”
Students, faculty, staff, and others in the community are welcome to sign up to give blood. They may do so by going online or contacting the Director of Student Leadership and Engagement, Kailee Knudson. An appointment is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.
Anyone who gives blood will receive a free T-shirt, snacks, and a Chick-Fil-A coupon. Ultimately, donors will receive the satisfaction of knowing they are helping someone in need.