By Annie Russell
Reporter
Houchin Community Blood Bank has been providing safe blood supply for hospitals in Kern County for years.
The first blood drive at CSU Bakersfield for the fall quarter was held on Oct. 14 and was organized by Stephanie Gibbons, community development account manager.
“By donating they are helping their community by replenishing the blood supply,” said Gibbons.
Liberal studies major Claressa Estrada expressed her reason for donating was “to save a life.”
Those who participated in the blood drive were given a free Houchin Blood Bank T-shirt and coupon for a free individual pizza at Rusty’s Pizza Parlor.
Togo’s sandwiches and water were given to donors as they waited in line to register.
Drinking plenty of water is highly recommended before donating.
“Drink as much as possible,” said Gibbons “water pumps up your veins.”
Also strongly recommended is eating a good meal before arriving, “Something with protein, it’s the best thing,” said Gibbons.
She said the most received blood type was O positive, and the least received was O negative. O negative is a universal blood type, meaning it could go to any person. In many cases it’s used in emergencies, when a person’s blood type is unknown.
The process of donating starts with registration, where the students and faculty information is logged into computers. Identification is needed in this process or donors will be denied.
Donors are then asked to fill out a questionnaire regarding health, past medical issues and medicines they have taken.
Next, they are subject to screening, where nurses check to make sure donors are healthy enough to donate blood, by checking the donor’s blood pressure, iron levels and making sure they meet the weigh requirement of 110 lbs.
If the donors pass the health screening, they are then allowed to donate. Three Houchin Blood Bank buses were parked near the student recreation center, where the donating process took place.
The most common reasons a donor is denied of giving blood, is if they got a tattoo in less than a year, don’t meet the weight requirement, no ID or are sick.
“Houchin’s partnership with CSUB has been long standing, and we appreciate the opportunity to come on campus,” said Gibbons.
If interested in donating blood, Houchin Blood Bank has two locations in the Bakersfield area: 5901 Truxtun Ave, and its new building on 11515 Bolthouse Dr.
