09.15.21
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Blood drive Sept. 20

About 1 in 7 patients require a blood transfusion. More than 4.5 million people in the U.S. need blood transfusions each year. Type O-Negative donors are universal donors. This means that their red blood cells can be transfused to any patient, regardless of the recipient’s blood type. The need for blood is significant. Thirty-six thousand units are needed every day. One pint of whole blood saves three or more lives. Every two seconds, American needs blood. Blood requirements for life-saving medical care (on average) Accident with massive blood loos 50+ pints of red blood cells Organ transplant: forty units of blood, thirty-five units of platelets, 25 units of plasma. Severe burn treatment needs 20 units of plasma. Blood or “whole blood” is made up of four components: 1% White blood cells that defend the body against infection 55% Plasma that carries blood cells, water, and nutrients Platelets that help the clotting process 44$ Red blood cells that deliver oxygen and remove carbon dioxide Blood components have a limited shelf life Platelets last five days Red blood cells last forty-two days Plasma last 12 months Regular blood donation helps all patients get the blood they need.LLCC Student Life is so close to reaching the goal of 18 donations for the blood drive on Monday, Sept. 20! As of Tuesday, Sept. 14, they are six donors short of this goal. In addition to local demand, other parts of the country affected by Hurricane Ida also need blood donations. Your contributions come at a critical time as the college’s Blood Bank Partner, ImpactLife, has reported that they are at less than a three-day supply of blood for most blood types.

If you are a first-time or a returning donor, if you have any questions about donating or if you need assistance signing up, please reach out to Kyle Roughan, student engagement coordinator, at kyle.roughan@llcc.edu or 217-786-2315.