Blood Drive Hosted by Boy Scouts Saves 72 Lives

A blood drive hosted by Boy Scout Troop 322 on Jan. 29 at resulted in 24 units of blood being collected; the goal was 25 units. That amount of blood equals to 72 lives saved!

The drive produced six new donors as well.

David Chambers, American Red Cross coordinator, said it is very difficult to have very large blood drives during the winter months, due to flu and colds.

Connor Dolan, a scout from , said he thought the blood drive would have a smaller turnout. "I knew it was a good cause, and any blood collected is great and saves lives, but for the Red Cross to run out of bags like they did for was amazing. It kinda' shows that if you see a need, and can make it happen, people will come," he said. 

Both of Dolan's parents donated. "I think it is neat that we all got to participate in some manner in this service project," he said. "My parents are busy and this gave them a simple and convenient way to give to the community."  

Tina Butler, a Eureka Methodist member and regular blood donor, said, "It is wonderful the Scouts stepped forward and provided a convenient way for the congregation to do their part in our community. We never know when someone we love will be in need of blood."  

One first-time donor and another Eureka Methodist member who wished to remain anonymous, told the scouts about trying to give blood while in college, but was turned down. "After that I just never tried again. So it was an experience to donate Sunday, and one I will be doing now."  

This donor said one of the scouts was very persuasive in recruiting people to the drive. "All the boys were very polite, very articulate and were everywhere talking about the benefits of giving blood. I just felt I should at least try again."

Editor's Note:  Shay Hawkins is the publicist for Boy Scout Troop 322 in Eureka.