As Falvey’s Cat in the Stax, Rebecca writes articles covering a broad range of topics, from academics to hobbies to random events. All the while highlighting how Falvey Library can enhance your Villanova experience!

Photo by Puwadon Sang-ngern from Pexels.com

On Sept. 11, the American Red Cross declared a national blood shortage. This means that the demand for blood is higher than the incoming supply of donations. The day the Red Cross made this announcement, the already critically low bloody supply had dropped 25% since August 2023. Every 2 seconds, someone in America needs blood.

Villanova is organizing two blood drives at the end of November, so please consider donating. One donation can help save three lives! The first drive will take place on Monday, Nov. 27 from 10 am-3 pm in Dougherty Hall. The second drive will be on Thursday, Nov. 30 from 10:30 am-3:30 pm in the Connelly Center. Click here to schedule your appointment today!

Why Should You Donate Blood?

Donating blood helps save people’s lives. The blood you donate is used to deliver transfusions to people who need blood. Transfusions have two main uses: they replace blood someone loses due to surgery or injury OR they help people with blood disorders (like sickle cell anemia).

Remember how I said one pint of blood can save three lives? This is because human blood has three main elements: blood cells, platelets, and plasma. After someone donates, these components are separated out for different treatments. The red blood cells are given to those who need blood transfusions and are incredibly important for people with blood diseases. Platelets help treat cancer patients as well as those undergoing organ transplants. Finally, plasma is used to treat mainly trauma patients and burn victims.

Donation Requirements:

• You can donate every 56 days: 6 times a year
• You must be feeling healthy on donation day
• You must weigh at least 110lbs

Rebecca Amrick is a first year graduate student in the English Department and a Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.