The American Red Cross blood drive at Marshall University collected a total of 50 units during the two-day event this week.

The blood drive was assisted by Marshall Red Cross and volunteers of Delta Zeta and Alpha Kappa Psi.

Because of the winter storms that occurred, the American Red Cross wanted to ensure it had an adequate amount of blood for patients in need.

Sophomore Mara Rhoades said she decided to donate for personal reasons.

“I am O positive,” Rhoades said, “and a lot of people need my type of blood, and donating blood is close to me because my friend’s brother has to have a lot of blood transfusions.”

According to the American Red Cross statistics, donors from high school and college blood drives account for 20 percent of donations given through the American Red Cross.

The Marshall Red Cross is a student led organization at Marshall University that partners with the American Red Cross on several blood drives to help the community.

“By being the president of Marshall Red Cross, I get a direct experience with the American Red Cross, community service, as well as it makes me feel important while saving lives,” said President of Marshall Red Cross Rick Allen.

Erika Johnk can be contacted at [email protected].