Campus, community turn out for fall blood drive

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The need for blood donations never ends, and to answer that demand, Meridian Community College students, faculty, staff and community residents stepped up to give during the College’s two-day blood drive.

“It’s important that we give back,” said Kelli Wallace, director of housing and student activities at MCC, who helped coordinate the blood drive with Mississippi Blood Services as the servicing agency. Wallace pointed out the need locally for blood.

“Families and children are going without blood, so it’s vital that we can give,” she said.

According to the American Red Cross, the nation’s blood supply has fallen critically low. The organization estimates the decline is almost 25% since early August, and the lack is potentially threatening the medical care of patients with an emergency need for blood or those living with critical conditions such as cancer and sickle cell disease who depend on lifesaving blood transfusions.

MCC Medical Office Technology Program student Marisella Gomez Reyes made it a point to donate; she had given previously.

“I give to help others,” she said.

Another MCC student, Madisyn Sims, echoed the sentiment.

“I give to make a difference,” Sims said.

Community resident Robin Seale took a break from her workday tasks and came to the MCC campus to give in honor of her mom, who passed away earlier this month.

“I give all the time, but I really wanted to now because of my mom,” Seale said.

The next campus blood drive is set for Feb. 7 and 8, 2024.

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