The University of Central Florida held its largest blood drive ever in honor of the Pulse attack victims.

  • Blood drive at UCF Monday
  • 200 students donated, including some first-timers
  • OneBlood says Pulse victims getting blood they need

Stephanie Hierhoozer is one of more than 200 UCF students who came out to the blood driver.

“It’s just crazy here in your hometown, something like this happening,” said Hierhoozer, from Orlando.

As a UCF cheerleader, Stephanie is usually at UCF’s Bright House Networks stadium getting people pumped for the big game. But on Monday afternoon, she was there to do give blood for the very first time.

“I always wanted to do it so I thought this would be a good time to start,” said Hierhoozer.

OneBlood officials say the Pulse victims are getting the blood they need. But there is a typical dip in blood donations during summer, so officials want to keep the supply strong.

So far so good. Since the tragedy, they’ve seen a 40 percent increase in first-time blood donors like Stephanie. They’re also seeing people donate for the first time in many years.

“I haven’t given blood in over 20 years and I feel like this is a great cause, and want to help our community be strong, united,” said Vicky Sharp from Oviedo.

Stephanie, who had support from a fellow UCF cheerleader, got through her first time donating just fine.

“With the Orlando shooting, you really do realize people really do need blood, and every day people are suffering and needing this,” said Hierhoozer.

If you were not able to make it out to UCF on Monday but you’d still like to donate – you can make an appointment with OneBlood online.