December has decidedly been proclaimed “the season of giving” for decades. But why should this thirty-one-day period and its holidays be the only time we give generously? There are so many ways to positively impact the lives of others year-round; why not also show (and give) a little extra love this Halloween?
One easy and rewarding way to make a massive difference in someone’s life is by donating blood. It takes just an hour of your time, can be done right on campus in Ackerman and will quite literally save someone’s life.
According to the American Red Cross, an individual in the U.S. needs blood or platelets every two seconds, yet there is a massive shortage compared to the large demand. Reserves of donated blood are a doctor’s first tool, especially when it comes to caring for car crash victims, patients undergoing chemotherapy, trauma injuries and individuals who suffer from sickle cell anemia. This is why it is imperative that there is a copious supply of donated blood at the ready. Furthermore, this supply must be diverse in type in order to be useful. Donor and recipient blood types must be compatible, and not all blood can be used for every person. This is why it’s extra important to have lots of different donors, just like you!
The UCLA Blood & Platelet Center makes donating blood easy, safe and a fun experience. The nurses are all incredibly kind and funny and make sure you feel comfortable for the entirety of your donation. From start to finish, the process of donating whole blood takes about an hour, although the actual donation only takes around twenty minutes. Appointments are easy to make online and times vary throughout the day so they can fit into everyone’s busy schedule.
Upon check-in, you’ll receive a packet with information about donation, factors that may render you ineligible to donate and what to expect. After reading and signing some consent forms, a nurse will lead you to a private room to go over a health questionnaire and ensure that you are ready to donate. Next, you’ll lie back in one of the comfy chairs where another nurse will begin the real donation process. Afterward, you’ll hang around for fifteen minutes to make sure that you’re not feeling lightheaded or dizzy. During this time you can relax, enjoy some of the snacks they offer and chat with the nurses and other donors. After this short rest period, you’re free to go about your day, knowing the life-saving impact you just made.
Out of all the eligible individuals in the U.S., only 3% donate blood yearly. This number is far too low for the need we are experiencing every day. Stopping by Ackerman for an hour this Spooky Season is just one way you can do your part to save a life this Halloween!