Special to the
Opelika Observer
The University of Alabama and Auburn University are on a lifesaving mission with the American Red Cross and need the community’s help. Sponsored by Alpha Epsilon Delta – The Health Preprofessional Honor Society – each school wants to collect the most pints of blood for hospital patients in need and win bragging rights. Auburn University will hold blood drives Nov. 12 to 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Student Center. The University of Alabama will hold blood drives Nov. 12 to 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Ferguson Center.
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Blood is needed for accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle-cell disease.
“We are excited to be able to use the football rivalry between Auburn University and The University of Alabama to benefit these blood drives,” said Robert Powers, service programs advisor for the Office of Student Involvement at Auburn University. “Through this friendly competition we will be able to help save lives and that is the ultimate goal.”
Presenting donors will receive a custom T-shirt, pizza and chances to win gift cards and raffle prizes, while supplies last. “This friendly competition is a great way for students, faculty, staff and fans to show school pride and help ensure a stable blood supply,” said Ronnika A. McFall, external communications manager of the Red Cross Alabama and Central Gulf Coast Blood Services Region.
Donors of all blood types are encouraged to make an appointment. Eligible donors with types O, A negative and B negative blood are urged to make a Power Red donation. Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells during a single donation, allowing them to maximize their impact. During this type of donation, red blood cells are separated from other blood components, and the plasma and platelets are safely and comfortably returned to the donor.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org sponsor code for Alabama blood drives: beatauburn; sponsor code for Auburn blood drives: beatbama or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
For more information, visit www.redcross.org.