Griffins step up to save lives
By Jonatthan Salazar
On Thursday, March 23rd, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the annual Spring Blood Drive was held in the THS gym. Approximately 50 students and staff members gave, or attempted to give, blood. A total of 30 pints of blood was collected. That quantity could help save over 30 lives!
Participating in the Blood Drive can earned you a $10 Visa Prepaid card, and a chance to win a $3,000 Visa Prepaid Card.
There is a serious need for blood, all over the world. This life-saving blood is used in surgeries, transfusions, and many other medical procedures. “It’s a good feeling to be helping people in need. It’s an easy process and I felt fine during and after the procedure,” said Mr. Solak, after his successful donation. Mrs. Panza is a blood donor All-Star. She has a rare type of blood, so she has been donating every year since she was in high school!
THS hosts two Blood Drives every year-one in the Fall and one in the Spring. If you wish to give on your own, or want to give next year, there are some important requirements: You must be at least 17 years of age. You must weigh at least 110 lbs, and you have to generally feel well. You can prepare for your donation appointment by getting 8 hours of sleep, eating a healthy breakfast or lunch, and staying hydrated! You will also need to bring proof of age, which consists of things like a student ID, or a driver’s license!
There are two kinds of donations. The most common type of donation, a blood donation, is where approximately a pint of 'whole blood' is given. This type of blood donation usually takes about an hour. The other kind of donation is a “Power Red” donation, where the donation collects the red cells but returns most of the plasma and platelets to the donor. These donors must meet specific eligibility requirements and have type A Negative, B Negative, or type O blood.
To learn more specific details, or to schedule an appointment, please visit redcrossblood.org.