For the first time, the National Cesar E. Chavez Blood Drive Challenge was held for two days instead of one at Bakersfield College.

It was held in the Fireside Room on March 7-8. On the first day, 168 people registered, but only 131 could give.

On the second day, 112 registered, but only 85 people could give.

In total, 216 people gave blood and 280 people tried. The Student Government Association and Houchin Community Blood Bank combined to bring the two-day event to BC.

Stephanie Gibbons of Houchin said that even though they don’t have anything to compare to this blood drive since it was held for two days, it was definitely a success.

“There was plenty of food and enough staff on hand to accommodate all the donors. It’s really amazing how well it turned out.This surpassed our expectations,” said Gibbons.

Donors were drawn to giving blood for different reasons.

“I did it because I thought it was the right thing to do, and even though it took up a lot of my free time, I would do it again,” said Natalie Rocha, BC student.

Some students did it for the free food. “I did it for the free pizza,” said BC student Alex Mora.

Some participated because of peer pressure. “My buddies were talked into it by their girlfriends. I wasn’t going to, but I figured, ‘why not?’” said Jay Rodrigues, BC student.

To give blood, donors first had to answer a questionnaire. Blood pressure and iron was checked after that.

It’s estimated that the whole process took 30 to 45 minutes. Donors had to be at least 16 years old and weigh 110 pounds. Unfortunately, some students were sent away because they didn’t weigh enough.

“I would give blood if I could. I just don’t weigh enough,” said Elizabeth Parnell, BC student.

The next blood drive will be held at BC next spring.