Members of the Sanford Lions Club rolled up their sleeves and literally bled to support programs for the blind, sight and hearing impaired and disadvantaged youth. This blood-letting occurred at the service club’s weekly dinner meeting Thursday, Feb. 5.
But it was all for a good cause. Blood samples from Lions will be entered in a DNA bank and—the good part for the club—each donor received a $20 check that was immediately contributed to Lions’ charity funds. On this night 51 club members participated meaning $1,020 was raised. More donations for the club will be taken at the next meeting which is the annual Valentine’s Ladies Night.
This DNA project is sponsored by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the UNC Medical Center. Called the Environmental Polymorphisms Registry, or EPR, scientists will use the DNA samples to look for differences, or polymorphisms, in people’s genetic material. Genetic differences can predispose some people to certain diseases or some may actually provide protection from disease.
The DNA registry will be studied by scientists for up to 25 years covering a broad range of health fields. Confidentially is assured through the National Institutes of Health, even under threat of court subpoena. Project workers said 20,000 participants are needed and they are over half-way to the goal.
Clinical staff present to secure the Lions donations included Alexis N. Bolton, Robyn D. Stephens, and Avery Harris. Bolton briefly described the research project and then paperwork was completed and blood drawn. The blood sample consisted of only a little more than one tablespoon.
President John Walden, Jr. presided and the invocation was given by Teresa Dew. Jim Romine led the Pledge of Allegiance. Program chairman was Secretary Dan Hruby.
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