On October 31st, BGHS HOSA is hosting a blood drive. A blood drive is an event where volunteers can sign up to donate blood, which will be collected from their veins using a small needle. The goal is to have 100 volunteers donate blood throughout the day.
The company that is hosting the blood drive, Blood Assurance, is local to Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and the surrounding area. All of the blood donated at our high school will support hospitals close to us, in which your family members or friends might need help from. Blood Assurance is a company separate from the American Red Cross, and they prioritize showing up for their donors and practicing excellent customer service.
Many people are intimidated by giving blood, as they may not have ever done it before. However, donating blood is a simple process that is relatively painless. If you have ever had a flu shot, the needle is a similar size. Donating blood should take around an hour, or a class period, but choosing to donate plasma or ‘double red’ (two units of blood) will take longer. You don’t need to be a specific blood type or even know your type to donate, as they will test it before you donate.
Most students feel a little tired after donating, but there is little concern about fainting if you eat properly and hydrate before the time of your appointment. Having energy drinks before donating can cause dehydration, so please avoid them.
On the day of the blood drive, October 31st, students select a class period to donate. Then, they’ll be taken out of class and given breakfast if they haven’t already eaten. After students donate blood, they receive a small snack and a free t-shirt. All students 16+ will need a permission slip signed by a parent and a photo ID (permit or license) to donate. Students 15 and under aren’t eligible to donate.
Donating blood during school is an easy way to give back to your community, and, through Blood Assurance, you can guarantee that your blood will help local people in need. To sign up, please scan the QR codes around the school or talk to a HOSA officer. Feel free to email [email protected] if you have any questions.
