In March 2016, American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine sponsored its 2nd Blood Drive, which collected 39 blood donations from AUA students that were later transferred to Mount Saint John’s Medical Center (MSJMC).

The event was created by President of the AUA Emergency Response Team (ERT) and a Paramedic Armin Edalatpour to inspire AUA students to give back to the community by donating blood. AUA students Leah Grossman, Htet San, and Monica Sheinin gathered experienced personnel and supplies to ensure the success and efficiency of this event. The team partnered with local Red Cross agents and members of the AUA faculty to gain specialized equipment such as medical chairs and qualified phlebotomists.

“We are grateful for the support and turnout of the AUA community for the blood drive benefitting MSJMC,” said Grossman. “Our hopes for the future include continuing the blood drive on campus each semester, as well as organizing short-notice blood drives when there is a dire need for donors at MSJMC.”