Salisbury University and the Blood Bank of Delmarva band together
Blood Shortage
SALISBURY, Md. – Salisbury University students and staff say they’re giving back to their community, one donation at a time. The Blood Bank of Delmarva brought its donation pod to campus this week to encourage more donations.
Patients
According to the Blood Bank of Delmarva, more than 79,000 blood donations each year serve about 20,000 patients. The non-profit provides blood and blood products to 19 hospitals on the Delmarva Peninsula and shares its efforts to collect on the Eastern Shore. Research shows that every two seconds, someone needs blood or platelets in the U.S.
POD
Tricia Garvey Smith Director for Student Involvement and Leadership at Salisbury University says the POD reaches more people. “I think once someone gives, they tend to give again and again… We’re able to provide that opportunity for our students and staff to give right here on campus, instead of having to go to the blood bank or find another source. So, we love supporting and we know that there’s a great need.”
Procedures
It’s a three-step process: sign-in, evaluation and donation. Bryan Shepherd of the Blood Bank of Delmarva tells us we’re in a shortage nationwide. “So, one in three units that get donated of all different blood products goes to a cancer patient. And really, within the last five years, there’s been a growth within that sector of the medical community.”
They are collecting blood, platelets and red cells. Shepherd says right now they need all the blood they can get. “We’re doing both whole blood and Alex donation. Alex is a type of aphaeresis where we collect double the red cells… Platelets only last five days after you donate them. So, the hospitals are always looking to restock their platelet supply as well.”
‘Pint Please’
Just one pint of blood can save three lives, and they say, every drop is worth it. Smith says, “The staff from the Blood bank are friendly and comforting. They’ll get you through the process. Just give it a chance.” Shepherd says, “Until you’ve personally been hit by a family member that needs it, you truly don’t understand the importance of getting out and donating blood.”
The donation POD will be at Salisbury University again November 22 from 10AM to 2PM. Students are asked to bring their IDs if they are interested in donating. If you can’t make it to campus, but still wish to donate, visit their website or reach out to the blood bank of Delmarva by calling 1-888-BLOOD8.
