The Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and the University of Memphis will host their bi-annual blood drive in the lobby of Rose Theater on March 3 and 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
Jake Thomas, 23, a U of M junior accounting student, has being giving blood for years.
“It is really easy to give blood when they come to you,” Thomas said. “People complain that it takes too much time, but the way they have it set up you can do it between classes without having to wait around.”
All U of M students, faculty, staff and people in the community are welcome to donate blood. This is the seventh time Lambda Chi Alpha has hosted the blood drive. Donors must be at least 17-years-old (16 with a parent’s consent) and weigh 115 pounds. Donors should be in relatively good health and drink plenty of water so they are properly hydrated.
Everyone who donates will receive a Lifeblood t-shirt. Walk-ins are welcome, but to ensure everyone can donate everyone is encouraged to make an appointment online. Those who make an appointment will receive a coupon for a free small coffee from Dunkin Donuts.
“I was planning to donate even before I knew I’d get a free shirt, but a free shirt makes it that much better,” Thomas said with a laugh.
Joining President David Rudd’s year of service initiative donors will also receive one hour of community service for donating blood.
Ryan Bittner, 19, exercise sports science sophomore, is the vice president of external affairs for Lambda Chi Alpha. In 2012, Lifeblood chose to partner with the fraternity for the blood drives, because of their ability to advertise and get participation.
“We have excelled in participation in the past so they decided to continue partnering with us,” Bittner said.
This blood drive is extremely important, because with the snow days Lifeblood had to cancel 17 blood drives.
“They are really counting on this blood drive to make sure everyone who needs blood receives it,” Bittner said. “It is important not only for them and the city but also for us.”
Maria Fisher, 34, is a stay at home mom from Memphis. Her mom had to go through several blood transfusions last year, but her blood type was different than her mom’s.
“I was so upset when they told me I couldn’t help my mom,” Fisher said. “I’m so thankful to have people who are willing to give blood for people who really need it.”
In addition to the blood drive, Lambda Chi Alpha also has an event called watermelon bust in the fall to support the national Lambda Chi Alpha philanthropy Feeding America. In the spring, they host Lambda Palooza to benefit the Wounded Warriors Project.
Students who want to donate, but are unable to attend the blood drive can still donate at one of the donation centers. Lifeblood will be opening a new donation center on March 2 at 4702 Spottswood Ave.
