The annual Plano Senior student-run blood drive isn’t just about contributions or donations; it’s about the character the donors create within themselves through their selfless act of giving blood for those in need.
“Giving blood is a serious cause, so it’s really important to take the time to prepare,” Health and Safety senior committee member Aiden Baxter said.
Students and staff should prepare by eating a full meal and drinking lots of water before they donate. Building energy in the body is very beneficial to the blood drawing process, and will make donation a lot easier. Proper hydration alleviates low blood pressure, which is the most common cause of fainting, and also assists in making veins easier to access.
“I decided to donate because I have the universal blood type, o-negative and I know I can help a lot of people,” senior Libby Boles said. “I think it’s important because for every one person who donates, multiple lives can be saved.”
Student Congress’ Health and Safety committee members not only collaborate with professional organizations, but also with clubs around campus for a chance to increase student engagement. HOSA aims to provide diverse and inclusive opportunities for those willing to help in the healthcare community, and clinical students will be assisting after students or staff get their blood drawn. Other StuCo members will also be willing to lend a helping hand, handing out snacks to donors and easing the flow of donors in and outside of the gymnasium. Carter BloodCare has been instrumental in providing the necessary resources for this event in the past, and will be back this year to help support the Plano Senior blood drive once again.
“By volunteering at the blood drive, I will be helping people both before and after their donations,” HOSA Clinicals student volunteer Aleena Nathoo said. “I’m here to ensure donors feel appreciated and comfortable, offering them snacks, directions on where to go, free t-shirts, and a friendly smile.”
Posted around the school halls are sign-up QR codes for those who are interested in giving blood. Students must be at least 16 years of age, with a parent’s signature of approval, to participate. Parent signature forms are found in room A217 and the front office. However, students seventeen and up are not required to provide a form of parent approval. Participation is key to the success of the event. Every donation counts, and organizers are encouraging eligible students of all blood types to step forward and contribute to the noble cause. Whether it’s O, A, B, or AB, every donation has the potential to make a life-saving difference.
“One donation saves three lives,” Health and Safety junior committee member Chloe Delcambre said.
