A blood drive from noon to 6 p.m. today in Pollock Halls is one of several upcoming opportunities for volunteers to respond to the nationwide emergency appeal to all eligible blood donors.
The American Red Cross joined America's Blood Centers, the American Association of Blood Banks, the American Hospital Association and the American Public Health Association to issue the urgent appeal last month because of unusually low supplies in the nation's blood banks.
Steve Campbell, donor resources representative for Centre, Mifflin and Juniata counties, said most blood banks had about a one-day supply at the time of the appeal, compared to an ideal one-week supply.
Campbell said shortages are expected in July and August as most people are thinking about enjoying vacations and other summer activities rather than donating blood. He attributed this summer's severe shortage, which began just after Memorial Day, to increased donor restrictions and the misconception that blood banks are still well supplied with donations from Sept. 11.
"What most people don't realize is that blood has a shelf life," Campbell said. "Platelets are only good for five days. Red blood cells last 42 days and plasma can be frozen for up to a year."
The College of Arts and Architecture responded to a regional emergency appeal by hosting its most successful blood drive on June 18. The college collected 45 productive units, exceeding its goal of 30 pints and breaking its record of 30 productive units.
Josh Meeker, Penn State alumnus, donated blood July 4 at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 109 McAllister St.
Meeker said he donates every year or so but was unaware of the current emergency situation.
"I didn't even realize there was a shortage until I saw the sign outside," Meeker said.
Molly Ziegler (nondegree) became a first-time donor at the July 4 blood drive. Ziegler said she had heard about the shortage and decided to donate because of a flier she received on the street.
"It's not hard at all," Ziegler said. "It's an extremely simple thing to do to be so helpful."
Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 105 pounds and be in good general health. Donors can safely give blood every 56 days. Campbell said those who are unable to donate could help by recruiting someone who is able or by volunteering at a blood drive.
The next donation opportunities on campus are July 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the HUB-Robeson Center, July 23 from noon to 6 p.m. in Pollock Halls and July 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the HUB-Robeson Center.
