Join the Fight: Donate Blood
Make a Difference and Support Those in Need—Every Drop Counts!
Did you know that every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood? Did you also know that a single car accident victim can require as many as 100 units of blood alone? This statistic emphasizes the importance and demand of blood donation, something that can save countless lives. As students of St. Lawrence, and as members of the North Country community, we have the ability to make a huge difference if we donate blood. Donating blood helps foster a sense of community and address urgent health care needs. One person donating blood can help save three lives. You are literally offering hope to people and their families.
As college students, we all understand how essential blood is to our bodies, even if we don’t think about it often. Remember when you were a kid and scraped your knee? Most of us just got back up and kept playing without a second thought. But for many people facing cancer, traumatic injuries, or chronic illnesses, blood is a lifeline. They rely on it in ways we might not fully appreciate. It’s easy to take our health for granted, but the reality is that we never know when we might find ourselves in need of blood. An unexpected accident or a sudden medical issue could change everything in an instant. By donating blood regularly, we not only help those in immediate need but also contribute to a system that protects us all. It’s a small action that can have a huge impact, reminding us of our shared humanity and the importance of looking out for one another.
The stories we often joke about, like how blood banks always seem to have shortages, aren’t really a joke at all. A report in 2022 stated that 4.5 million people in the U.S. require blood transfusions annually, but many blood centers struggle to maintain even a minimal supply. The uniquely American crisis of normalized gun violence further escalates the demand for blood. Coupled with an aging population, there has never been a more urgent time to donate. Blood donation shouldn’t just be something we do after a tragedy or for a quick boost of good feelings, but rather a regular part of our lives. By making it a habit, we can help ensure that blood is always available when it’s needed. It’s a simple way to make a real difference, and it’s something we can all contribute to.
Donating blood is more than just a way to help a stranger in need; it’s a vital contribution to building a stronger community right here at SLU. We share a responsibility to support one another, and when we unite around a common cause, like helping our fellow human beings, we foster relationships that deepen our connections and enrich our shared experience. Regular blood drives are essential for improving our local healthcare systems, ensuring that hospitals and care centers have adequate blood supplies. This not only reduces wait times but also enhances patient outcomes. By participating in blood drives, we can make a meaningful impact on our community’s health while creating new bonds.
Blood donation often carries a host of stigmas that can deter potential donors, such as misconceptions about health risks or eligibility criteria. Furthermore, many individuals may believe they are ineligible to donate due to various myths surrounding the process. In reality, countless people who think they cannot donate may qualify. Organizations like the American Red Cross work to dispel these myths by providing clear guidelines about eligibility, helping to demystify the donation process and empower more individuals to contribute to this vital cause. By addressing these stigmas and educating the public, we can foster a more inclusive environment for blood donation.
Blood donation is crucial, but it’s just one piece of the larger puzzle when it comes to supporting both your health and that of our community. You don’t even need to donate blood if you do not want to and still help your community. At SLU, we’re fortunate to have a wealth of resources dedicated to promoting well-being and fostering connections. Beyond the act of donating blood, consider attending a dinner at the Green House, where you can enjoy good food and meaningful conversations. Volunteer with Campus Kitchens to help combat food insecurity or take a moment to relax and connect over tea at the I-House. Sign-up for a Saturday Home Build with Habitat for Humanity, where your hands can make a real difference in someone’s life. Participate in guided meditation sessions with Light House to nurture your mental health or explore the extensive sexual health and wellness resources available at the Dub. Obviously, this list is not exhaustive and there is so much more to do at SLU. Our campus may be small, but it offers countless opportunities to enhance your health and cultivate a vibrant sense of community.
When considering the importance of blood donation, keep in mind that SLU will host a blood drive on Tuesday, October 1. We have to look out for each other and ourselves, and this is a great way to do it. If needles freak you out, or you may not be eligible, or you just don’t have the time, there are so many other ways you can engage and uplift our community. If you have never donated blood before but have thought about it, there is no better time to start than now. Who knows, you might even get a cookie afterwards! (There is no guarantee of pub cookies though.)