April 15, 2010

PITTSBURGH - The Duquesne football team helped register 409 fellow students and university staff - over 150 more than anticipated - as part of the national "Get in the Game. Save a Life." bone marrow registry program on Wednesday afternoon.

"I can't express enough appreciation to all those who put time and energy into making this event a success," said Duquesne head football coach Jerry Schmitt.

"Sharon King, from the Central Blood Bank and her staff worked diligently with Mike Craig, assistant football coach, the Dukes staff and our enthusiastic players. They did an outstanding job planning, recruiting and facilitating the drive itself."

The team, which set up and staffed tables on the patio area of Mellon Hall, had hoped for 250 registrants.

Participants were asked to fill out a form with personal and health information and have a cheek swab taken. The swab provided the registry a DNA sample which will be added to the national registry of bone marrow donors.

Once the DNA is entered into the national registry, the information is retained until that person's 61st birthday.

The process took approximately 10-15 minutes per person.

"I also want to thank the students, faculty and Duquesne community for coming out and supporting our first "Get in the Game - Save a Life" campaign," said Schmitt. "I congratulate and thank all involved for serving our mission here at Duquesne, 'It is the Spirit who gives life'."