Anatomy Students Host 2nd Quarter Blood Drive

The anatomy and physiology students are hosting a blood drive and are looking to recruit 152 donors.

You’ve seen the posters around the school and community, “Donate blood.” They’re there because Central’s anatomy and physiology students are preparing for the second quarter blood drive. Perhaps the signs and steady stream of blood drives leave you wondering, what is the big deal?

The demand for blood is overwhelming. Statistics show that 85% of people will need blood sometime in their life, but only 5% of the population has donated. For an hour of your time you can donate a unit of blood, which has the ability to save up to three lives. “When someone needs blood to survive that is all that can be given to them,” says Tori Robbins, a donor recruitment representative for United Blood Services. “There is no substitute for donated blood, so Central HS students, faculty and families will impact an amazing amount of local patients lives by giving blood on the 18th.”

Central is known for hosting some of the largest blood drives in the region.The substantial numbers from past drives prove the generosity of people in the community. In 2015, 384 people donated 479 units of blood. The year before that 367 people donated 458 units of blood. For this quarter, the goal is to have 152 donors. If you have not donated before, this is a great way to give back to the community and help save lives.

While donating blood and saving a life is a huge benefit to the drive, there will also be free snacks and beverages available to donors. Numerous organizations have generously donated to help provide food and drinks, proving that even if you can’t donate blood, you can help support the drive.

To donate you must meet the health requirements. The minimum age is 16, but if you are under the age of 18 you must have a parent consent form.The forms will need to be brought to the drive along with a picture ID. If you have questions about the qualifications to donate please call 605-646-2643.

Photo: Human blood with red blood cells, T cells (orange) and platelets (green) by
ZEISS Microscopy on Flickr