At the CSU North Ballroom, Upward Bound at Minnesota State University, Mankato, will sponsor a Red Cross Blood Drive on Feb. 3, 2022, between 10 AM-4 PM. Upward Bound encourages all students to come to the donation.
On Jan. 11, 2022, the American Red Cross declared the first-ever blood crisis.
According to the Red Cross, someone in the nation needs blood every 2 seconds and one blood donation can save more than one life. Learn more about blood donations.
Here’s what to expect before, during, and after a blood donation:
1) Register or Walk-In
Students can register by visiting www.RedCrossBlood.ord and entering the MNSU sponsor code MSUUPWARD. Walk-ins are welcome, as well. Students may have to answer a quick interview about their general health background.
2) Maintain a Hearty Diet
Drink plenty of water before donating blood. Additionally, students should eat foods with high iron, such as spinach, cereal, meat, and more. Learn more about iron-rich foods.
3) Pick an Outfit
Students should find loose, well-fit clothes for comfort during their donation. It’s important to wear a shirt that gives easy access to a vein while donating blood.
4) Relax at the Donation
During the donation, Red Cross urges students to find ways to relax. Students may listen to music, talk to other donors, read a book, and do other small activities. The donation takes about an hour to complete.
5) Watch your Health
After donating blood, students should eat a snack and drink water. Red Cross urges donors to continue staying hydrated and eating iron-rich foods, at least a few days after the donation. For extra precaution, try not to lift any heavy objects and don’t perform any intense exercises immediately after the donation.
6) Tell a Friend
Encourage more people to donate blood. Anyone can come and donate.
