Jake’s Corner…

Jacob Breevaart attends the day program at COVE and has a knack for taking pictures and asking questions. His first interview is with Melissa Crick, who is a Program Manager at COVE and organized the first CVI blood drive. This interview took place on January 20, 2012.

 California Vocations Blood Drive

Jacob: “So you organized the CVI blood drive, why?”

Melissa: “Well, I know the need for donors is always there and most people are willing to give but just don’t know how or where to do it. So, I thought this would be a good way to share the information and encourage people to give.”

J: “How many people donated for the CVI blood drive?”

M: “We had 41 total people come out and try to donate and 38 of those were able to successfully give. There was a mix of employees and friends and family members of employees that gave. Including, 16 first time donors.”

J: “How old do you have to be to give blood?”

M: “You must be 17 or 16 with a parent signature to donate and you must weigh at least 110 pounds.”

J: “How old were you when you gave blood for the first time and how many times do you think you have given blood?”

M: “I was 16. There was a blood drive at my high school and I had to have a permission slip and I have given just over 80 times.”

J: “How long does it take to give blood?”

M: “Somewhere between thirty minutes to an hour depending on how busy they are. The actual blood donation only takes about 5 to 7 minutes but first you will need to check in and you must have a snack and rest for at least ten minutes before leaving.”

J: “What do you eat after you give blood, what kinds of food do they have there?”

M: “The people hosting the blood drive always provide lots of yummy snacks. They usually have granola bars, cakes, cookies, fruit, nuts and all kinds of drinks and more. Sometimes they provide Subway sandwiches.”

J: “I heard you get Ice cream for giving blood, is that true?”

M: “Yes, there is what is called the pint for pint program. You get a gift certificate for one pint of ice cream for every pint donated. They also, give away T-shirts, hats and other cool things as well.”

J: “How long does it take to recover?”

M: “Well, I have never felt any different after giving blood but it is recommended that you take it easy (no strenuous exercise) and eat well for two days after giving.”

J: “How does it feel to save a life?”

M: “I have never thought of it in terms of saving a life but of course it feels good to donate and I know it does help people.”

J: “Will there be another CVI blood drive?”

M: “Yes, the next blood drive is Wed., Feb. 1st 12:30 to 5:30 at the Paradise Veterans’ Hall and we are hoping to get even more people to donate this time. After that, we are hoping to host our own blood drive at the COVE building on Pearson Road.”

CVI staff pose with the shirts they received after donating blood. Photo by Jake

Please donate blood in the name of California Vocations, by signing in on the CVI log at the registration table.