Every year, the National Honor Society hosts multiple blood drives in partnership with the American Red Cross. One is during the fall, and the other is during the spring. Donating blood is an excellent opportunity to make a difference in another person’s life. Many people in the school use the blood drives as a chance to give back to the community.
The process of donating blood is fairly straightforward. First, someone looking to donate blood must be at least 16 years old and have parental permission. Once you arrive at the drive location, a person will take a test that confirms their eligibility as a donor. Then, the blood will be drawn. Finally, the donor will go to a small table where they will eat a snack and have a drink to recover. When donating blood, it is imperative to eat breakfast on the day of the donation. It is also a good idea to stay hydrated leading up to the blood drive. If a person does not follow these instructions, that person may feel adverse effects, such as dizziness or fatigue. However, if the person has a balanced meal and stays hydrated, he/she will feel much better than those who do not. Every person will have a different reaction to donating blood, but most people who are eligible to donate blood should not experience any side effects for an extended period of time.
Junior athlete, Brody Hillis had the chance to donate blood last year during his basketball season. After he donated blood, Hillis reacted differently than most people. “It was a weird feeling,” Hillis stated. “… I started to get really lightheaded and really hot.” Most people do not have severe side effects, but Hillis is one example of someone whose body reacted poorly to the donation. Because of his condition, Hillis stated he had to miss practice for that day. This is why it is important to eat breakfast and prepare for the donation. In spite of the side effects, Hillis wishes to donate blood again this spring. This is a testament to how important it is to donate blood. It is a fulfilling experience for the donor and critical to its recipient.
Math teacher, Mrs. Sipe is a very consistent and generous donor. “I give blood two times a year at the blood drives here at Lewis Cass,” Sipe said. “Since I do the Power Red, I cannot give as often as a regular donation can give.” The Power Red is a specific type of donation where you donate two units of blood in a single donation. This can lead to heightened side effects, but these effects can be lessened or eliminated with experience. “ Giving blood does not affect me at all. I make sure I eat a good meal before I give, and I try to drink extra water the day before I give,” Sipe stated. She does not feel ill at all during or after the donation. Giving blood is very important to Sipe. She reflected on a time when she needed blood as a toddler, so she wishes to give back. She is glad at the chance to pay it forward.
Giving blood is a great chance to give back to society. Blood is in constant demand, and all blood types are accepted. The blood drive at Lewis Cass High School is on March 13 from 8-2 pm. Come donate blood and help save lives!
