According to the CDC, the U.S healthcare system needs 29,000 units of red blood cells every day. That’s about 3,785 gallons. The national blood inventory dropped 25% in July 2024, meaning that hospitals and emergency services were struggling to find the right blood to save patients' lives. The American Red Cross made a statement in 2022 about the desperate need for blood.
“Today, the American Red Cross launched a nationwide emergency need appeal for blood and platelet donors. With less than half a day supply of Type O blood, there is a severe national blood shortage. The Red Cross is using local and national media and social media to raise awareness to the urgent need for blood donors.”
The American Red Cross partnered with The NHS Student Government to run a blood drive for those in need. The drive was held on February 5th in the dance studio. Students need to be at least 17 years of age, and medically able to lose that much blood for the donation.
Mrs. Gagnon, the advisor for Student Government and the adult in charge of running the blood drive shared her thoughts on the drive.
“We had hoped to have more participation from the student body but we had a good number of staff participate so we would consider it a success,” Gagnon said. Jenna Lagan, a NHS senior who donated blood, talked about her experience and what prompted her to donate.
“I donated blood because I know how important it is to help people in need; especially in emergency situations. I have always wanted to do it because it is a simple way to make a difference. Morally, it felt rewarding to do something selfless, knowing that my donation could help someone else. It made me feel like I was playing a larger part in helping my community and those in need,” Lagan shared.
The drive was run in the dance studio below the gymnasium. There were many Red Cross workers there, and the studio had many students coming in and out in a short amount of time. NHS senior Mary Guion, shared her experience.
“They ask you a bunch of questions and they stick a needle in your arm. Then they draw your blood and you sit there and squeeze a stress ball. And then you get to eat snacks!” Guion said, while sitting on a gym mat on the side of the studio, regaining her strength with a juice box and some Cheez-its. “I had a free period and it feels good to help somebody.”
The whole process was relatively quick, with a Red Cross representative making sure the donor was healthy and the correct age and weight. The donor sat in a chair, similar to one found at the dentist.
“Including your interview thing, and the actual drawing of the blood, it takes about 15-20 minutes,” NHS senior Sofi LaPierre explained. LaPierre also volunteered as a member of the Student Government.
When donating blood, they take about a pint. So even if it doesn’t seem like that much, you can still help save a life! The American Red Cross is almost always running blood drives, so check out your nearby locations to find a date and a place.
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