Carlmont students are being asked to donate something that can save lives: their blood.
According to the American Red Cross, one donation of blood can save up to three lives.
ASB’s Human Relations Commission collaborated with Do Something Commission for the the first time this year to organize and assemble the annual blood drive, which takes place before and during school next Thursday. To donate blood, students must be at least 16 years old, and fit the gender-specific weight-to-height requirements.
The drive gives back to the community and provides a means to save the lives of those in need of a blood transfusion. Many students feel that by donating their blood, they also create a shared experience with their classmates.
“It helps the Red Cross which collects blood and gives to hospitals,” said Human Relations Supervisor senior Cailan Cumming. “At Carlmont, it gets students involved because they have a lot to give.”
The American Red Cross has been operating blood drives for over 120 years, and is the largest supplier of blood in the U.S. They partner with middle schools, high schools, and colleges to host blood drives across the country.
Carlmont has been partnered with Red Cross for multiple years. According to Human Relations Commissioner sophomore Jade Sebti, the organization has proven to be extremely reliable in the past.
The blood drive this year promises to attract more participants than in the past. Because of the block schedule, students now have the option to donate before school instead of missing class. Cumming also said that some logistics have been modified in order to make participants more comfortable and cause the event to run more smoothly.
“[The blood drive] helps people outside of Carlmont, and unifies us because we are all working towards a common cause,” said senior Thomas Chin.
Many students who are not yet 16 are already planning on donating in the upcoming years. Sophomore Jake Stulbarg said he is “planning on doing the blood drive because it’s a good cause and unites our community for the greater good.”
Cumming recognizes the hesitation students feel towards blood drives. “It’s not in everyone’s comfort zones, but we want new people to try to get out of their comfort zones by donating to a good cause as well as returning participants.”
In the past, approximately 70 students have participated each year in the blood drive. Limitations such as fear of needles, age limit, and weight requirements prevent many students from participating. Around 50 students actually donate blood after signing up.
Although Cumming understands the hesitance some students feel to get out of their comfort zones, she encourages everyone who is legible to donate. “It can really make a significant impact it on the community. Once you donate once, you will most likely want to continue donating every year.”
Some students donate to help the community, while others contribute simply to get out of class and receive free snacks. Whatever the reason, participating in the Carlmont blood drive is guaranteed to make the difference in someone’s life.
