University of Charleston

University of Charleston

Every 2 seconds, someone needs blood. To help meet that need, the University of Charleston and West Virginia State University are participating in their fifth “Blood Drive Battle” to help the American Red Cross.

The Red Cross will be on both campuses for blood donation events in February. The University of Charleston will hold its drives Wednesday, February 8, and Monday, February 20. The  drives will be held in the Appalachian Room  from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The winner of the battle (based on the number of donors) will be announced at halftime of the UC-WV State basketball game that will be played Saturday, February 25 at UC’s Wehrle Arena. Game time is 4:00 pm.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment to give blood. You can schedule yours at https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=25304. Keyword is uc.

Compatible matches are important with blood donation, and the most compatible match is from a donor of the same race or similar ethnicity. This is particularly important for someone with sickle cell disease who needs blood. We hope that all students and employees will consider the number of lives they can save with the simple act of donating blood.

Blood is also needed for accident and burn victims, those undergoing surgery, those battling cancer, and more. Because there is such an ongoing need, blood drives are critical to having adequate supplies on hand. For more information about donating blood, visit the American Red Cross website at www.redcrossblood.org.