Many students, faculty and staff were “roped in” to give blood during Lifeline Blood Services’ Wild West-themed blood drive April 6-7.

In April 2003, the blood drive received 74 donations on Tuesday and 76 donations on Wednesday. This time, the numbers increased. On Tuesday, 143 students attempted to donate and 117 were successful. Wednesday, 120 students attempted to donate, and 98 units were accepted.

“I am very pleased with the results from the blood drive,” said Tammy Hurst, Weakley County recruiter for Lifeline. “It is nice to see the increase in the number of people donating here at UTM.”

Lifeline is the official supplier of blood to many West Tennessee hospitals, including Volunteer Community Hospital in Martin. So, your donation this week could possibly go to help somebody in this community.

“I have a popular blood type, and I think it is important to help others,” said Haley Hudson, a freshman Biology major from Gleason.

“You never know when you might need the blood yourself, and it doesn’t take long to help others by giving,” said Randall Shadburn, a freshman Secondary Education major from Adamsville.

“I would like to thank every person who gave during the past two blood drives. College students are usually labeled as self-centered people who are not concerned with others. This is obviously not the case at UTM, and Lifeline is thankful for your efforts and support,” Hurst said.

Lifeline comes to UTM for two blood drives every semester. They also host drives at various locations in Martin and Weakley County.