By Christopher Sanchez
Reporter

Donating blood is a lot like voting. Everybody should do it, but most people don’t.
The Houchin Community Blood Bank held its Spring Blood Drive at the student union at CSU Bakersfield on April 11. Their goal was to have 84 students donate.
“I was inspired to donate from my brothers at Omega Delta Phi,” said Alexis Rivas, a sophomore electrical engineer major. “I just wanted to help out and do my part.”
Donating blood is very simple and quick. The whole process averages 30-45 minutes. Before donating, it is important that donors weigh at least 110 pounds, have a minimum hemoglobin level, and feel healthy.
When donating for the first time, donors have to be entered into the Houchin Blood Bank database. The process is very simple. Donors have to be 18 years or older, have a valid picture ID, and provide general information.
There is an initial screening process which is very straightforward. Hemoglobin levels and blood pressure are checked first. During this stage, potential donors are asked about travel history, medical history, and use of any medications.
All information that is given is confidential. Everything that is used is sterile, used only once, and is in a prepackaged kit.
In some cases, prospective donors can be denied. Reasons include low iron count, intravenous drug use, anyone testing positive for HIV, hepatitis, recent tattoos or piercings, or any of the diseases listed on the questionnaire.
“I always try to donate and help out,” said Joana Sifuentes, an undeclared freshman. “I’ve only been able to donate once. My iron is too low, so I don’t get to donate.”
Once the donor is approved, the blood donation process takes up to 10 minutes. After the donation process is finished, donors are rewarded with pizza, juice, and other tasty snacks while they recuperate.
“I donate frequently and its easy when it’s on campus,” said Armando Garcia, a sophomore, business major. Garcia’s donation earned him into the one gallon club.
Before donating, remember to drink lots of water. Eat a healthy meal beforehand as well.
“It doesn’t hurt to donate and it’s helping someone out,” said Sifuentes.