AC blood donations may help save lives in U.S. war with Iraq by Paul Willis The Ranger Reporter

A Coffee Memorial blood drive took place Monday and Tuesday at Amarillo College due to an increasing demand for blood generated by the war in Iraq.

"I give blood all the time," said Vickie Shelton, a business office supervisor. "It's my way of helping out, especially with the war going on.

"I just like to give, and the blood drive is another way I can do that."
Vilakone Dara, a phlebotomist at Coffee Memorial Blood Center, pointed out that blood received from the Texas Panhandle is shipped to a surplus center in Dallas. From there, it is sent overseas to help aid the war effort.

"No matter where we go, we should get between 20 and 30 percent of the people to donate, but it is usually 10 percent or less," said Debra McKeegan, a phlebotomist.

Thirty-two AC participants gave blood during the two-day drive.

"It actually does your body good to have to replenish your blood supply," Shelton said. "A lot of people don't have the money to donate, but this doesn't cost me a dime. It just takes a little bit of my time."

Dara said blood type 0-negative is considered the universal blood donor. "It could be you or someone you love who will need that pint of blood," McKeegan said. "There are many different types of blood, and we need all of them."

"Since the war has happened, a lot of people are more willing to donate," Dara said. "A lot of people really care."