Last Monday, students and staff members came in and out of the Staff Development room, hoping to save a life. With no regrets, the donors lifted their sleeves and let the Red Cross nurse take blood that will one day be given to someone in need of it.
The Blood Drive that took place on March 4 was hosted by North Point’s chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS). Ms. McLaughlin, Chair of the World Languages department, sponsors the National Honor Society as well as the blood drive that occurs twice during the school year. The first blood drive occurs in the fall and the second one happens in the spring. This spring was the mark of the 4th annual blood drive held at North Point.
It is easy to save a life. There are only a few requirements to donate blood. Ms. McLaughlin says one requirement is that, “The donor has to be the age of 16 or older, with parental consent.” Of course there are also papers to be filled out and a height and weight qualification to met so that the right amount of blood can be taken for donation.
When donating, there are a few things to be done before the blood is actually drawn. Donors must make sure to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy level of iron in the body. That way the blood can be richer and more beneficial to the person receiving the blood. Most importantly, just relax before and after donating. Donating is a simple and safe procedure so there is nothing to worry about.
The process to give is simple too. The Red Cross nurses will cleanse an area on the arm and insert a sterile needle for the blood draw. There will be a slight pinch but it will all be over in a few minutes and worth the pain.
After the donation, the donors have a sense of accomplishment knowing the blood drawn will save a life. That is a great reward, along with the refreshments served at the end. It is important for donors to take ten minutes to rest and refuel again so they can go on with the rest of the day. Together, North Point collected forty units of blood.
