Donors contribute their blood everyday to help accident and burn victims, patients undergoing invasive surgeries and those battling cancer. According to the American Red Cross, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds.

Each year, High Point University hosts blood drives to help the American Red Cross meet the demand for blood donations. The American Red Cross partnered with HPU’s Sigma Nu and Volunteer Center to host the school’s latest blood drive on Sept. 18 in the John and Marsha Slane Student Center.

Some of the donors, like HPU student Kayla Johanson, were first time donors.

“I heard about the blood drive through Campus Connection, Pre-PA Club and Sigma Nu,” said Johanson. “I wanted to give back to something bigger.”

Blood needs are extensive. According to the American Red Cross, about 36,000 units of red blood cells, 7,000 units of platelets and 10,000 units of plasma are needed daily in the U.S. Approximately three units are considered the average red blood cell transfusion, and blood type O is in highest demand by hospitals.

The American Red Cross reports that a single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood. Additionally, about 1,000 babies are born with Sickle Cell disease each year and may require blood transfusions for the entirety of their lives.

“I cannot think of a good reason not to donate blood,” said HPU blood donor Michael Snyder. “There are people that need it, or this would not be happening.”

The American Red Cross encouraged those unable to attend the blood drive to visit redcrossblood.org to find another local blood drive. Those who are curious about donating blood can also visit the website to discover their eligibility requirements, learn about blood, how blood donations help, an overview of the donation process and what to do before, during and after the blood donation process.

The website has a page specifically targeting first-time blood donors to help them through the process. There is additional information for those who are apprehensive about donating blood due to fears of fainting, needles, lack of safety or not having the appropriate kind of blood.

Student organizations interested in sponsoring HPU’s next blood drive can contact the Volunteer Center at volunteercenter@highpoint.edu.