Aggies win Blood Battle for sixth straight year
USU claimed its sixth straight victory in the annual USU vs. University of Utah blood battle after the U of U held their blood drive last week, 1,235 units of blood to 1,054.
“The Blood Battle was absolutely amazing. Although we did not reach our goal of 1,300 units of blood, we came very, very close,” said Brett Healy, ASUSU service vice president.
Chris Fenn of the Red Cross said the blood taken at the Blood Battle could be used at any of the 40-50 hospitals the Red Cross supplies in Utah.
“There is always a need for blood,” Fenn said.
Natalie Glover, junior majoring in history and political science, said she was really nervous donating blood, but she had all her friends there. She said it’s good to donate blood, so when given the opportunity it should be taken.
After the blood is taken it is separated into six test tubes and tested for HIV, hepatitis, syphilis and blood type. During the summer it is also tested for West Nile., Fenn said.
If anyone is to get sick within three days after donating they are to contact the Red Cross so the blood is not used. Even if someone feels fine the day of donating, the virus could have already been in their system, Fenn said.
Jackie Lambert, senior majoring in English education, said she donates because of the example of her dad. She said her dad donates as much as he can because his blood type is O-, which anyone can use.
“Even if you are scared, the people here are so nice. It’s the easiest service you can give, and it really saves lives,” she said.
–tazya.wiliams@aggiemail.usu.edu