The University of North Georgia’s Gainesville campus will host a LifeSouth Blood Drive Monday, Sept. 30. Organized by the Department of Campus Recreation and Wellness, the LifeSouth bloodmobile will be stationed at the Strickland Parking Lot from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Citing the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross, UNG Health and Natural Sciences Department Head, Heather Harris says Georgia’s blood supply dropped by more than 25% during the summer months, leaving the state’s storage supply at a critical low. These record-breaking shortages leave local hospitals with a decreased supply of blood as they face a period of increased demand.
“The summer months are particularly hard for donations because people are on vacation [and] they’re extra busy,” Harris said. “There’s also been cancellations on blood drives because of severe weather, whether it’s high heat levels or hurricanes.”
Harris said the best way to deal with this shortage is to get the message out and encourage everyone, but particularly people with blood types O negative and O positive, to donate. These blood types are very valuable because O-negative can be universally administered to patients, and O-positive is the most common blood type and it compatible with all other positive blood types.
“All blood types are in demand…It doesn’t matter what your type is, it’s needed.” Heather Harris, UNG Health and Natural Sciences Department Head
LifeSouth is offering $20 e-gift cards, along with free snacks and juice for those who are giving. Students, faculty and members of the public can schedule an appointment online or stop by the bloodmobile vehicle and wait for the next available slot.
Event Coordinator Sara Freeman, who’s UNG’s Coordinator of fitness, wellness and health promotion encourages people who are nervous about donating to focus on their mental well-being. She suggests simple strategies to alleviate stress and stay calm during their appointment such as keeping a positive mindset and bringing headphones to listen to music. “Don’t overthink it,” Freeman said. “If you are feeling nervous, just take some time, maybe come back later.”
To donate, participants must be at least 16 years old, weigh 110 pounds and present a photo ID. Minors are required to present written parental permission. Flyers with QR codes have been posted around the Gainesville campus to make it easy for students to schedule appointments. Alternatively, you can sign up through this link.