Kenneth Cheung's Alpha Phi Omega Universe

American Red Cross Blood Drive

By Dominic Foss, Fellow Donor
            April the 11th came and went just like any other day on campus; people went to class and studied in what ever way they saw fit.  In this day however, the students of SJSU could have saved a life, not only a life, 3 lives.  Monday the 11th was the American Red Cross Blood Drive.  It was held in the Loma Prieta Room and was impossible to miss if you were on the second floor of the Student Union.  The blood collected on Monday was for the national blood bank and could be the one saving grace for many if the unfortunate may occur.  Due to comments from previous events, staff and nurses of American Red Cross came in full force with 8 tables for registration, and another 8 benches for the donation.  With over 20 chairs waiting for donors one staff member said in the closing hour, if 30 people were to come, they could have them all done in less then an hour.  Too few and far between were the donors who came in, it was unfortunate to see so many empty seats in the waiting portion of the room.  As a fellow volunteer and blood donor for the day, I must say that I am disappointed.
             To the 35 people who took the time out of their busy schedule to take the role of a blood donor, I offer you my deepest respects as you showed that you had what it takes to save a stranger’s life.  To take 30 minutes out of ones time to get stuck with a needle is defiantly a person who is considerate enough to put forth the effort to make a difference in 3 people’s survival at their most trying times.  
           
I know we are very busy people, what with mid-terms and paper on top of projects to get out of the way, it was hard to find time to do some the most simplest pleasures such as having a sit down lunch.  Some days just are not meant to have free time or work beckons you to make the money we all need so bad.  This is all understandable and American Red Cross will always be around to accept donations.  If any should want to donate but could not due to prior engagements, you may call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or go to www.redcross.org/donate/give/ for any information ranging from eligibility, to nearest locations, to health tips for a quick procedure.  Register to be a blood donor at http://www.beadonor.com before donating blood.
           
The next Blood Drive event on campus with American Red Cross will take place on May 11, 2005.  The location will be the same but the times may be subject to change.  Help out the community and nation by giving some blood and at the same time eating your fill of cookies, crackers, raisins and other goodies that are free for your consumption.  I hope to see some new faces ready to give blood and save a life or two next month.

06.10.2005