Sylvia DuranOpinion Editor
Red, white and blue balloons will lead the way to the Cerritos College blood drive on February 21, at the Student Center Stage from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
The American Red Cross will be on campus and it “needs as many people to come and donate blood,” said Charles Gale, Jr., director of Health Services. “We are getting the best that America can offer in blood donating services.”
Last year Cerritos College donated 110 units of blood. Currently it has 150 sign-ups but is hoping to recruit another 150 to 200 donors. “We are hoping to obtain 200 units of blood this year,” Gale said.
To accommodate locals who wish to donate blood, the college is offering free parking in the C-10. Cookies, juice and different snacks will also be served.
Looking forward to donating? The actual donation takes only ten minutes, but there is a health prescreening and a 10- minute seating after donation, so the process can take about an hour. “It’s important to set aside an hour or hour and a half when donating blood,” Gale said.
Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Blood expires in 20-30 days and individuals are able to donate blood every 56 days. Remember to bring a valid form of identification. The blood donated will probably stay in the LA county area.
Temporary deferrals include persons who have been exposed to malaria, have had a tattoo within the last year, pregnant women and persons not feeling well on the day of the donation. “If you suffer from any chronic illness, check with your physician before donating,” Gale said.Permanently deferred from donating blood are those who have had viral hepatitis, chemotherapy treatments, or are at high risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.
The American Red Cross recommends that “you eat and have plenty of fluids before and after donating.”
Walk-ins are reminded that “Cerritos is notorious for walk-ins,” Gale said. “The problem is that they tend to wait longer, as appointments donate first.”
The staff covers 15 people every 15 minutes. The Red Cross staffs the blood drives according to the amount of reported appointments.
Don’t think the Red Cross needs your help? “There are hundreds of surgeries and a big requirement for blood. Every holiday, or every time it rains, accidents increase along with the demand for blood,” according to Gale.
“This is a good opportunity to give back to our community. You can literally save a life. You are offering the gift of life.”
Later that day, there will be a prevention unit promoting Natural Heart month. The American Heart Association, along with a list of local health agencies, will be on hand offering free glucose and blood pressure screenings. “We invite all students to stop by,” Gale said.
Gale hopes to establish a blood drive twice a year; the beginning of every Fall and Spring semester. “It’s a minor inconvenience to help and to care for our community.”
For further information please call (562) 860-2451 ext.2321.
