High school blood drive scheduled for Friday, May 10

The blood drive on Friday, May 10 is an opportunity to give back to the community. It also benefits students for future potential blood donations.

School counselor and coordinator for the blood drive Erin Gardner said, “If [students] have an opportunity to give here at the high school, they are more than likely to continue to give through their adulthood.”

The process of donating is actually pretty simple, Gardner said, “The whole process should take 10 to 15 minutes at the most.”

If students sign up for the blood drive, they will receive a pass to go and get their blood drawn. They will then sign a form and get their background information done. Then they will have their temperature taken and have their finger pricked to make sure their iron is not low. Once the student is ready, they are taken back to get their blood drawn. 

After their blood is drawn, there will be a snack table available to help anyone who is feeling dizzy or woozy get nutrients back into their systems. Once they are feeling ready, they will be sent back to class.

There are many ways to help at the blood drive other than just donating blood. 

One way to help is by working at the registration table. This would entail handing forms out and checking people in. 

Another job that is needed is walking people around after their blood is drawn as it is common for some people to feel dizzy after. “The nurses call the volunteers over, and they can help them walk people over to the snack table,” Gardner said.

The final way to help out is by working at the snack table. Those working at the snack table will have to keep an eye on the donators to make sure they are not having a reaction to the donation.

A reaction can include paleness, sweating, nausea and, in some cases, vomiting.

To avoid potential reactions, Gardner said, “It is very important to have a great breakfast that morning. Be very hydrated, so drink lots of water.”

Those who wish to donate blood can sign up on Schoology. To volunteer during a free period or a study hall, contact Mrs. Gardner to see what is available.