by Jennifer Kowalewski

When second-year medical student Laura Miller went to give blood fall quarter, she could not donate because of a deluge of donors. The American Red Cross ran short of supplies for the number of walk-ins that day.

“So I asked the Red Cross to come back this spring because I was confident that we could guarantee them more blood donations than last time,” says Miller, a member of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA).

Hopefully, the community at OU-COM will come through again, with another 60 people able to give blood at this Monday, May 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Bricks at Irvine Hall. Those wishing to donate should register prior to giving by contacting Miller at lm361404@ohio.edu.

“People should realize that, especially with an appointment, it is a quick and easy way to help others,” Miller says. Blood is a lifesaver for many, particularly trauma victims. Giving blood is a way to give back to the community and a way of helping those when they need it most.

This is the first-ever blood drive for SOMA, which recently merged with Helping Hands, both student organizations at OU-COM. SOMA has been involved in many community events aimed at helping Southeastern Ohioans. SOMA has supported Good Works’ Friday Night Supper, Walk for the Homeless and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation Heel to Heal Walk. Also, SOMA worked with AmeriCorps in Meigs County to assist migrant workers.

The blood drive is another way SOMA helps.

“Our goals are to improve the living conditions, health and quality of life of the region’s most needy,” she says. “I am very proud to attend a medical school that places a great amount of value in community service.”

Want to give blood Monday? (You should, by the way.) You can donate blood if you are in good health, 17 years of age or older and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds. Additional eligibility requirements apply, including a one-year waiting period after getting a tattoo, unless it was applied in by a state-licensed and regulated facility. The American Red Cross also requires that donors present a positive ID that includes date of birth.

See you then.