On Oct. 25, 2024, Ross High School will hold its biannual blood drive. This will occur in the gymnasium from 8 a.m. to noon. Heather Hudak (commonly referred to as HK) runs the blood drive. The participants will be given a free shirt and a chord for graduation if they have donated three or more times.
Both students and staff members can participate. Students can only donate if they are 16 or older, but if you are 16 you need to get a permission slip signed before the drive. Please be careful when donating because you may feel ill afterward. RHS senior Stephanie Gottlieb stated “And then I felt a little dizzy and faint… So the second time I gave blood…they were taking the needle out of my arm and then I passed out. ” This is not necessarily the case for everyone who donates blood.
Some could enjoy the experience because in doing so they are helping those in need. Also, some people have no issues with donating blood which makes the experience more positive. American Red Cross member Nikki Mayville stated, “I felt a slight pinch when the needle went in, but it was over in seconds. The actual donation process was surprisingly comfortable.”
HK has been running the blood drive since last school year and is excited that the blood is going to people in need. HK suggests donors should prepare for the drive by “eating a very good dinner. Eat an even better protein-based breakfast. Don’t come without breakfast. Be VERY hydrated.”
HK suggests that students not do anything strenuous afterward. She stated, “If you’re an athlete, check with your coach because coaches…they’re going to want you at your best, and donating blood doesn’t keep you at 100%.”
The company that runs the drive is Soltivia, which has been in charge of this drive for years. If you would like to know what blood type you are, you can ask the nurses, and they will tell you how to find that information. If you have any other questions about the process, they are happy to help.
