UPDATE: 2:40 PM-According to One Blood, by the end of the afternoon, they had collected enough blood to donate/save 21 lives.
UPDATE: 2:00 PM-By this time the One Blood mobile was wrapping up for the day, making sure the track was clear for departing students, some of whom, seniors in particular, would be leaving at 2:15.
UPDATE: 1:30 PM-Ms. Jules, One Blood Account Representative, explains that 53% of the blood donations they receive come from teenagers. “All donations we collect are tested and then given to area hospitals,” she said.
UPDATE: 1:15 PM- Junior Eva Marques Verdecia donated for the second time in her life. “The first time I was nervous, afraid of the needle. But this time, I was more aware of the purposed of giving back,” she said.
UPDATE: 12:15 PM- Junior Siena Garcia donated for the first time. “It was simple, and they were helpful,” she said.
UPDATE: 12:10 PM- Account Representative Ms. Ginette Jules said the Big Red Bus had seen seven donors by lunch time, and had established a goal of 10 donors.
ILS students will have a chance to give back to their community as HOSA hosts a blood drive on today. The event brought OneBlood’s Big Red Bus to campus, giving eligible students the opportunity to donate blood and help people in need.
Blood donations are important because hospitals depend on them to treat patients dealing with serious injuries, illnesses, and medical emergencies. People who have been in accidents, undergone surgery or are receiving treatment for certain medical conditions may need blood transfusions. Even one donation can make a difference in someone’s life.
HOSA, a student organization focused on health and medical careers, is helping organize the event. The blood drive gives students an opportunity to support their community and learn more about how donating blood can help others.
The Big Red Bus will be parked on campus, making it easier for students to participate during the school day. Students must meet the required age, weight, and health guidelines to donate. Those under 18 also need permission from a parent or legal guardian.
Before donating, students go through a screening process to make sure it is safe for them to give blood. Iron levels are especially important because donors need enough iron in their blood to donate safely. Trained medical professionals will guide donors through the process and answer questions they may have.
Last year, 19 students donated blood during the school’s blood drive. This year science teacher Mr. Jose Companioni hopes to reach a goal of 20 student donors. According to the information shared for the event, “Each successful donation can help up to three people. If all 20 students donate, their donations could potentially help as many as 60 patients.”
The blood drive is also a way for students to get involved in something meaningful outside the classroom. While students learn about helping others in school, this event gives them the chance to put that idea into action.
HOSA hopes the blood drive will bring the Royals’ community together for an important cause. For eligible students, donating blood is a simple way to help people they may never meet and make a positive impact in the community.
