CTC Blood Drive Nets 27 Units

CTC Blood Drive
December 1, 2009: Columbus Technical College Practical Nursing Instructor Linda Pagano was first in line to donate at a recent blood drive on campus.

The Columbus Technical College School of Health Sciences on Tuesday sponsored a blood drive with the local chapter of the American Red Cross. During the six-hour drive, a total of 27 units were collected. Jennifer Birkemeyer with the Columbus Donor Center said 41 potential donors came to the drive but not all resulted in a donation.

Registered Nurse and Dean of the CTC School of Health Sciences, Barbara Gaither, is a strong believer in donating blood - especially this time of year. Her belief is based not only on her healthcare background but also due to recent personal experience.

Gaither said, "There is a severe shortage to the blood supply this time of year and from someone who personally needed two units this summer due to an emergency in the Operating Room, trust me when I say it is truly the gift of life! It's the best gift you can give this holiday season."

In order to donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. For additional information about the local Red Cross chapter and donating blood, visit their web site.