Images and Article by: Mathylda Dulian
In a world still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, blood donations are more needed than ever. The Red Cross issued a state of emergency earlier this year after an all-time low record of donations was reported for the first time in 20 years. In an effort to make a difference and motivate students to donate, the GW Red Cross chapter participated in the DMV-wide “Blood Battle.”
“It's that little competitive factor that gets students engaged,” said Hajar Errahmani, the Blood Drive Coordinator for the GW Red Cross chapter. This year’s Blood Battle is between George Washington University, American University, the University of Maryland, Howard University, Johns Hopkins University, and Stevenson University. "We already do monthly blood drives, but it was a collaboration with Laura, our point of contact with nationals, that sparked the idea," Hajar explains. "We've been doing this for about two years now to… encourage as many donors and schools to participate as possible."
Maya Chokshi, a sophomore and GW Red Cross Club volunteer, emphasizes the significance of donating blood in saving lives. "There's a nationwide blood shortage, and donating a pint of blood can save so many lives," she said. "For every pint donated, it's three lives saved. So, by donating once every couple of months, your blood is going to something very important and useful."
According to Northwestern Medicine, of the 38% of Americans eligible to donate blood, only 3% do so. The shortage began during the pandemic when blood drives could not be held due to health restrictions. Even as COVID regulations have been lifted, fewer people donate every year. Blood is needed for a variety of procedures, from intense surgeries to cancer patients requiring transfusions. Without these donations, thousands of Americans are not able to receive the treatment they need to survive.
The battle lasts from March 15th to April 29th, with the winner being announced on the 30th. All students are encouraged to donate if eligible according to Red Cross regulations. As the Blood Battle rages on, remember the true victory is saving hundreds of irreplaceable lives with a simple donation.
