CAPE CENTRAL HOLDS ANNUAL BLOOD DRIVE

It's a record that few schools can claim, but Cape Girardeau Central High School holds the state record for the largest blood drive.

The school set the record in 1991 when it collected 300 pints of blood, said Dave Palmer with the American Red Cross.

More than 240 people donated blood at the school Tuesday during its annual drive sponsored by the Student Council and Beta Club.

High school drives tend to reach high goals because students are involved, Palmer said.

"There's a lot of enthusiasm and it's a lot of fun," he said. "We want to make it a good experience so they will continue giving in the future."

The goal was set at 250 based on past blood drives. However, it fell short by about seven pints. To donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old and weigh 117 pounds. People can donate blood every 56 days.

However, the area's blood supply should be in good standing for the beginning of the summer holiday season. The summer months are difficult times for blood collections, Palmer said.

"Memorial Day through Labor Day are the toughest," he said. "People are on vacations and needs are up and supply is down."

Blood donated at Tuesday's drive should reach area hospitals by Friday, he said. Normally blood is processed in about 72 hours.

"We ask for help before Memorial Day because that's when most accidents occur," said Bonnie Crites, student council sponsor.

Junior Luke Lowes was a first-time donor Tuesday. He was coerced into giving blood by a friend, Aaron Baldwin. Baldwin coordinated the drive as student council treasurer.

"I'm really paranoid," Lowes said. "I wanted to make sure it's safe and they told me they wouldn't be here if it wasn't."

In addition to helping save a life with his donation, Lowes also got to miss taking a Spanish test. But he'll make it up later this week.

Many students received extra credit from teachers for donating.

Other community drives are planned Friday at Lone Star Industries from noon until 4 p.m. at the Natatorium; and from 2-6 p.m. at the Southeast Hospital Jackson Outreach office in Main Street Fitness.

A monthly, community drive will be held May 29 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center.

The American Red Cross office in Cape Girardeau serves about 16 hospitals in an 80 county area of Missouri and Illinois.