Yale rowers do their part to help save lives

Following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the Yale community supported the American Red Cross and other organizations by donating blood to help victims in both Washington, D.C. and New York City. Unfortunately, blood donation was extremely difficult for the athletic community, as conflicting practice schedules, long lines, and strenuous workouts all combined to reduce the possibility of contributing to the relief effort.

The men's heavyweight crew team's frequent practices throughout the week made the suggested 24-hour post-donation recovery time impossible. However, the whole heavyweight team felt it was important to contribute to the relief effort, so coxswain Vishnu Flores, ES '02, took it upon himself to work out the details and proper procedures for donating blood after regular competition was over. Two weeks ago, following the Head of the Charles Regatta and the end of the fall racing season, Yale heavyweight rowers donated blood at the American Red Cross in New Haven.

Ultimately, 16 members of the team were able to donate, while several were turned down for various reasons, including living in Europe recently and having anemia or other illnesses. Captain Nate Kirk, BK '02, said, "It is something I think everyone should try. I can't stand the sight of needles or blood, so this was an impressionable experience, one I will not soon forget."

Despite the widespread national response to Sept. 11, the Red Cross is still eager for people to donate blood to "ensure a sustained and secure blood supply for all Americans."

—Darcy Wiecks

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