MHAFB out for blood

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shane M. Phipps
  • 366th Fighter Wing
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  MHAFB will become an enabler to a cause that has the potential of saving numerous lives across the country -- the regular blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 27, at the fitness center.

Like clockwork, the base has hosted a blood drive every 52 days and most have proved successful in the eyes of those involved.

The website www.blog.inceptsaves.com lists some facts: "every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Blood cannot be manufactured; it can only come from generous donors. At least 25 percent of us will require blood at least once in our lifetime. If all blood donors were to donate blood three times per year, then blood shortages would be a rare event. About three gallons of blood supports the needs of the entire nation for a minute."

James Koseki, 366th Medical Group blood drive coordinator, encourages all Gunfighters to get out and donate.

"Our quota is always set at 100 good units of blood, but the more we can get the better," said Koseki. "We have met quota every time except the last one where only 74 units were collected."

Coordinators agree, the blood drive is more than just a volunteer opportunity, it provides a unique opportunity for Gunfighters to make an important impact not only within their community but the entire nation.

"Each day, the Mountain States Tumor Institute in Boise treats many men, women and children with blood and blood products," said Koseki. "Without the blood many would die or would have to leave their family and go to Seattle or a larger facility for treatment. I worked in one of these larger facilities and I just could not keep the strong attitude it takes to give them confidence to heal. It takes a very special person to look into the eyes of a dying child and keep a good attitude. I don't deal with sickness and death perhaps because of my age and how close I could be to being one of them. I much prefer to do my utmost by providing the tools to keep them alive and to cure them."
"Please, please help me to convince others on this Base who have never donated but can," exclaimed Koseki. "The people before them gave so they were protected and now they cannot so it is time to return the favor."

For Koseki donating is more than a mere charitable act, it is much more personal.

"I think about those less fortunate and how their chances of survival increase," he continued. "I think also of their family! I have witnessed their tears first-hand."

For more information on future blood drives, contact James Koseki at (208) 828-7830.