To help many in need of blood transfusions, the next blood drive will be on Thursday, Feb. 8 in the auditorium.
Versiti, an outside organization that helps with blood drives and the transfusion process, will help the student council make the blood drive run smoothly and collect as much donated blood as possible. Safety is the top priority for those who are donating blood, so some restrictions are in place.
“Students have to be sixteen years old with a parent permission slip,” Kristy Riley, student council sponsor, said.
Although restrictions are put in place the blood drive is still very helpful. According to Riley, roughly fifty students participate every drive. Some even participate multiple times.
“I have donated twice,” junior Tyler Timm said.
Students just want to help those in need. The ability to help others is a big motivation for those to choose to donate blood in the first place.
“I know that my blood can help people,” senior Mckenna Ignasak said.
Many students donate blood to help people; however, other motivations are also present. No matter the reason, the donors are helping those in need.
“I decided to donate to skip class and get free snacks,” Timm said.
Some students want to donate but cannot due to many reasons. These students want to help and be a part of the difference maker.
“I just know how much my blood could make a difference,” sophomore Nathan Reyes said
Also some kids just do not want to donate. For a series of reasons some students just decide not to. Personal preference or even just the restrictions in place prevent kids from donating.
“I am not a fan of needles,” junior Jonathan Tantiwongse said.
No matter what, the blood drive continues to be a major help considering the blood shortage issue.
“We continue to do the drive because we know how serious the blood shortage is, and we want to help,” said Riley.
