Blood Drive '08

Students on May 20th participated in the annual blood drive that has taken place for over eleven years. Located in the first floor gym, students were eager to partake in helping those in need. The generous donation was sent to various centers to help victims. Given the contributions made by both students and teachers, hopefully it will guarantee success for many victims of various crises.

The requirements to give blood were that one should weigh at least 110 pounds and have an iron level of 12.5 grams with the highest being at least 20 grams and clean arms-meaning no cuts or rashes . Upon arrival, donors were given tests that check for temperature and blood pressure. Students who have tattoos that are not at least a year old are recommended not to give blood. As a precaution, donors are told not to operate heavy machinery or do excessive exercises.

“Reasons for giving blood are to help leukemia patients, people with hemophilia, bleeding disorders and clotting of red blood cells,” said Lorraine, a donor specialist.

Out of the various reasons for donating blood many people agree this is one way of saving a life.

Even munificent teachers like Mr. Pallisco gave blood. “You may never know when someone’s going to need blood,” said Mr. Pallisco. “If something happens to me and I’m in need of blood, I’d be upset if they don’t have my type, hence the fact of giving blood.”

Blood that is donated are broken into three categories: plasma, platelets, and red blood cells. Plasma goes to burn victims, platelets go to chemo therapy patients and red blood cells go to anemic, organ and bone marrow transplant patients.

“I feel good donating because I could save the lives of at least three people,” stated Jane Belaustegui, one of the generous donors.

After giving blood, donors were given snacks and refreshments to replenish their energy.

Even though most students fear the prick of a needle, one little prick can help thousands in need of blood. Afterwards, students can feel great because they’ve contributed to victims and have done something productive for society.