The University of South Florida Polytechnic was "out for blood" during last week's homecoming celebrations. A two-day blood drive on campus collected enough donations to save 324 lives. According to Penny Bennett of Florida Blood Services, the total amount donated "is almost a week's supply of what we provide to Lakeland Regional Medical Center."

Dr. Jan Lloyd, USFP's director of student affairs and dean of students, says, "I am so excited that we had such tremendous involvement in the blood drive and we could impact over 300 lives in just two days. It's important to remember that each person can do one small thing, such as donating blood, that can have a positive impact on our community. As our campus continues to grow, we intend to offer more and more volunteer opportunities that impact our Polk County community as well as service opportunities abroad."

While many blood donors never know the people they help, Dawn Lengel, web designer in USFP's University Advancement department, has a personal connection.

"In 2004 when my dad was preparing for triple bypass heart surgery, I donated blood, requesting it be used for his surgery," she says. "It turned out he needed a quadruple bypass, and the blood was definitely needed. Ever since then, I try my best to donate so I can help others."

Generally, healthy people age 16 (with parental permission) or older who weigh at least 110 pounds can donate blood. Identification is required prior to donation. Florida Blood Services provides for the blood needs of patients at 37 hospitals in Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk Counties, through the generosity of volunteer blood donors. Over 800 donations are required daily, due to the high quality of medical care in Tampa Bay that serves the most critically ill patients throughout west central Florida. For eligibility inquiries please call 1-800-68-BLOOD (25663).