On Friday, October 13th, St. Joseph's High School held their annual blood drive from 9:00AM to 1:00PM. The event covered the entirety of period 1 and 2, going through lunch and taking up most of period 3. The blood drive required donors to be 17 years or older. Some students who are under 17 years of age invited their parents and older siblings to donate blood in exchange for a dress down day.
The donor clinic took place in the gymnasium. There was also a booth set up in the atrium in front of the guidance office. The sign-ups were in the guidance office. “
“We try to come to high schools to recruit people to donate when they are young," said Ms. Bondy, the charge nurse that took care of this event.
Two volunteers alongside the charge nurse, Ms. Bondy. Photo credits: Angelina L.
There were over 25 volunteers and nurses who helped make the drive successful, as well as students, their parents and teachers who gave their blood to help save lives. In order to give blood, you would have to generally feel well and be free of any conditions. For first time donors, they could be tested right there before proceeding to donate. There were also questions asked to check eligibility. After blood was taken, there were snacks provided. Every student that gives blood has the possibility to save three lives.
The Canadian Blood Service was the association who came to the school to hold the drive. For more information about them and their cause, anyone can go to blood.ca.
One of our very own teachers here at St. Joseph's, Mrs. Masse, right after donating
some of her blood to the blood drive. Photo credits: Angelina L.
"It was not our best turn out but it was still very wonderful to see so many people trying to make a difference" quoted a volunteer. Their goal was to collect 72 units of blood and by 12:00PM, they were at 41 units. St. Joes’ faculty and Canadian Blood Service volunteers are very thankful for everyone that came and took part in their life saving program.