When most people think of blood, they are overcome with sickening thoughts of gruesome horror scenes and scary needles. According to United Blood Services, a non-profit community blood center, every day one out of seven people admitted to the hospital needs blood in order to survive. Unfortunately, most people tend to be unaware of this alarming statistic.
So where does this blood come from? Is there a magic dispensary of never-ending blood located in the depths of hospitals that saves peoples’ lives?
Unfortunately, there is no magic machine that creates blood. In fact, every day people depend on ordinary citizens to do their part and donate their blood.
While donating blood may not seem like something that can boost your resume, donating blood may be one of the best things a college student can do to give back to the community.
“I've donated blood twice, even though I'm afraid of needles,” said Mara Zegarac, a sophomore journalism student. “I think it's important for people to help those in need in any way they can. If I'm healthy and strong and can help others grow stronger, why wouldn't I take that opportunity?”
Zegarac began donating her senior year of high school. She also has donated at an ASU blood drive.
“My mother is an O negative blood type, meaning she can donate her blood to anyone, and she has been donating for years. She and my ex-boyfriend talked me into donating,” Zegarac said.
Zegarac’s blood type is also O negative. Once she learned her blood type, she decided to continue donating.
Donating blood is in no way limited to just college students. Rochaun Smith, a 47-year-old registered nurse for Maricopa County Correctional Health Services and Phoenix resident, has been donating blood twice a year since she was 20 years old.
Smith’s grandfather inspired her to donate blood. Her grandfather was in World War II and always donated blood whenever he could.
Although many often flinch at the thought of being stuck with a needle, the result is well worth the minimal seconds of pain. The donation process is quick and simple, and, according to the American Red Cross, a person can donate six times a year — it only takes two hours each appointment. That is 12 hours a year.
“The best part about donating blood is the free snacks and juice you get while recovering from the donation,” Smith said.
In reality, donating blood is simple and painless. United Blood Services holds multiple local blood drives throughout the state of Arizona as well as across the United States. They also host occasional blood drives on campus, so make sure to be on the lookout and help someone in need.
Save lives with Arselia at agales@asu.edu.
