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Appalachian State University’s Homecoming Blood Drive Remains Largest Single Day Blood Drive in Carolinas

Sept. 25, 2014. Appalachian State University (ASU) students and participants get an A-plus for helping to successfully collect 1,265 blood donations in their quest to help save lives and remain the Carolinas Blood Services Region’s largest, single-day blood drive yesterday, Wednesday, Sept. 24.

“The annual homecoming blood drive involves the entire Appalachian and Boone community and each year I am touched by the reasons our donors turn out to give and the reasons why others are willing to help out in any way possible,” said Kate Johnson, associate director for the Appalachian and Community Together. “I am continually inspired by the dedication and passion our Appalachian students have for making this blood drive a success so that people they may never know have the opportunity to heal and thrive.”

ASU is among several North Carolina colleges and universities that collect hundreds of units of lifesaving blood with the American Red Cross and holds the record for the largest, single-day blood drive in the Carolinas Blood Services Region. Since inception in 2007, the Annual Homecoming blood drive has resulted in the collection of more than 9000 pints which potentially has helped save the lives of more than 27,000 people as one blood donation can help save up to three lives.

“Year after year, the ASU community steps up to the call for blood donations which goes toward helping to save lives locally as well as nationally,” said Sharon Pitt, CEO for the Carolinas Blood Services Region. “We are grateful for the continued and growing support of those who respond to the constant need for blood donations.”

Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all need blood. The Red Cross encourages people who are in good health to donate so that hospital patients have the blood and platelets they need to make a full recovery. Red blood cells have a shelf life of only 42 days and platelets just five days, so they must be replenished constantly – there is no substitute.

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 (16 with parental consent in some states), 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.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Photos courtesy of the American Red Cross

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