West Virginia University will announce plans to help improve the American Red Crosss”liquid assets”at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 27, in the Mountainlair ballrooms.

WVU and the Red Cross are teaming up to sponsor an extensive series of campus blood drives, one of which will take place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday.

“These American Red Cross blood drives are essential to keeping the community’s blood supply adequate for every day needs, or in the event of a natural disaster,”said WVU President David C. Hardesty, Jr., who will be among those giving blood.”It is an important way to help both our loved ones and the community.”

WVU Staff Council President Terry Nebel agreed.

“I am a big believer in the mission and goals of the American Red Cross,”Nebel said.”I cant stress how important it is that all those eligible give blood. It only takes a few painless minutes to do something that could save a life.”

American Red Cross officials will also be on hand.

“This is one of about 37 blood drives we will make at various WVU locations throughout the coming year,”said Suzan Clemens, American Red Cross donor resources field representative.

“The University has always been a tremendous supporter of the Red Cross,”she added.”We are really looking forward to participating in this strengthened partnership.”

“Blood is in demand on an on-going basis,”she said.”Whether its for those undergoing surgery, accident victims or other medical needs, the need for blood is always constant.”

Some people fear giving blood, thinking that they dont meet the appropriate requirements. They think that giving blood is in some way injurious or that it will hurt, she said.

Anyone at least 17 years old, who is in good health and weighs at least 105 pounds may donate blood on the average of every 56 days, she said.

“About a pint of blood, or one unit, is drawn,”Clemens explained.”Most people have 10-12 pints of blood in their system, so theres no reason to fear that too much will be drawn. Your body manufactures new blood constantly. The volume you give will be replaced within a few hours. After donating, most people go about their usual activities.”

Each donor completes a confidential medical questionnaire with a Red Cross volunteer prior to giving blood, and refreshments are served following donation to get blood sugars back to normal, she added..”Its an easy process, and it means so much to those in need.”

For more information on this event, or other local blood drives, call Clemens, 304-598-0732.