While the Michigan football team gears up to play Ohio State University in two weeks, the entire student body is also preparing for battle - the Blood Battle. Every year, students at the University and OSU compete for bragging rights over which university can collect the most blood donations, and this year the competition has already begun. Kicked off last Friday with the Michigan Marching Band and the raising of a banner over the steps of the Michigan Union, the blood drive will continue for two weeks until Nov. 20. While the battle is a fun and competitive challenge between two old and steadfast rivals, it is also benefits an important cause.
Blood banks nationwide are finding their blood stores in short supply. Hospitals usually prefer to keep a three-day supply of blood available, especially for emergencies and blood transfusions. But because of the blood shortage, especially in Southeast Michigan, hospitals are forced to ration themselves to a one-day supply. Not only is this a dangerous alternative, but it could also affect doctors' decisions regarding large procedures. In the Southeast Michigan area, 1,000 pints of blood are used every day and the supply needs constant replenishment. Giving blood is an easy and convenient way to help save lives.
The Red Cross will be stationed at many places on campus, making it easy for students to donate. Along with donations, the Red Cross needs volunteers as well. Giving blood requires a pre-screening procedure that checks a donor's blood for any disease or abnormality that would make a donation impossible. Further, after the blood is drawn, volunteers are needed to help donors relax and replenish their bodies with juice and cookies - just some of the many benefits one reaps from giving blood. To schedule an appointment to donate or volunteer, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE.
The Red Cross, students and all involved should step up its commitment this year and make every effort to collect 1,500 pints of blood - the goal for this year's Blood Battle. OSU has won the battle for the last six years, but this should be the year for the maize and blue. Students should take advantage of the ease and convenience of having the Red Cross on campus, and if able, donate their blood.
The donation process takes about an hour and to donate, one must be at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds. While medical conditions such as low blood-iron levels and infections prevent many from taking part, all other students who fit the guidelines should sacrifice an hour of their time during the next two weeks. Saving lives is only this fun, easy and competitive once a year.
n Tomorrow: Pierpont Commons from 9 a.m.-3 p.m; Business School, Phelps Room from 12-6 p.m.
n Friday: Mary Markley, South Lounge from 1-7 p.m.
n Nov. 15: South Quad, African American Lounge from 12-6 p.m.
n Nov. 16: Michigan Union, Anderson Room from 1-7 p.m.
n Nov. 17 and 18: Michigan Union, Pendelton Room from 1-7 p.m.
n Nov. 19: Michigan Union, Ballroom from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Source: Campus Information Center
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