Atherton’s hosts a blood drive with the American Red Cross twice a year, one in the fall and winter. This time, the location is in the small gym to acquire more space making donors feel comfortable and welcomed. A number of volunteers and employees came to help take part in the event. As of the beginning of this year, America has had a severe blood shortage due to the extreme winter weather across the states, as well as multiple illnesses hitting communities, like the flu. Nearly dropping 35%, every donation counts to save lives.
The gym was filled with medical equipment to draw blood, check vitals, and make sure everything runs smoothly. There were tables for checking in, as well as a snack station to help with getting blood sugar up, any dizziness, or fatigue. The American Red Cross had employees spread out throughout the gym to keep track of students and their health.
Paisley Rogers (12) volunteered to help out with the blood drive. Her role was an escort–guiding people to snacks to make sure they felt alright before returning back to class.
“It’s really important, not only to the people here [American Red Cross] but throughout the country because of the blood shortage,” Rogers said. Rogers isn’t able to donate blood, but decided to work the event but wanted to help her community. “I wanted to do my part in helping.”
Gabriella Junuzovic (12) decided to donate her blood to help her community.
“It’s a necessity in the U.S, but also the world right now. It makes me feel good about myself.” Junuzovic said. “I can benefit more people and myself personally, I can always build more blood, just knowing I can help someone else.”
From the last blood drive in October, the goal was met with 45 units of blood. This blood drive went above and beyond beating the goal by 6, making the total 51 units. The blood drive, ran by HOSA, saved over 153 lives just by donating blood. Students and staff made everything possible to those in need for blood. The annual blood drive not only provides learning for students, but leaves positive feelings of those that donated.
