Ottawa blood drive

Graphic by Micaela Alley

When thinking about the month of February, you may envision things such as hearts, chocolates and red roses. The scent of romance is in the air -- even though some may despise this holiday. The first two weeks in February are meant for people who are in relationships, while the single people may find other ways to cope during this hard time of the year. But single or in a relationship, everyone can donate blood in Ottawa on  February 16. 

During this hard time for all of us, we need some good in the world. Donating blood is a simple way of doing that. The blood drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Celebration Hall 1737 S. Elm. It will take five minutes to drive there, about a 20-minute appointment time and a five-minute drive back to campus. That is less time than it takes you to wait at the Ottawa McDonald’s drive thru.

Some things to know before you go: Bring a photo ID, know what medications you take or have taken that day, drink plenty of water and have some food in your system. There are a few reasons you may not be able to give blood, which include not feeling well, having traveled outside of the U.S. within the last three years and if you have gotten a sketchy or unsafe tattoo recently. 

Micaela Alley, a junior at Ottawa, has been part of the Red Cross Club for three years. 

“In the future, I hope to work in the medical field. This organization is an amazing opportunity to gain experience and see firsthand how a huge part of health care works. As far as giving blood, there is nothing to be scared of. Our club and the phlebotomists will take care of you and make your experience as quick and easy as possible. We hope to see you there,” Alley says. 

There is an additional bonus to giving blood this year: You give blood and then are entered into a raffle for gift cards! 

Let’s make times a little bit easier for people who are going through hardships during this time of uncertainty.