PAHS Hosts Second Blood Drive of the School Year
PAHS Hosts Second Blood Drive of the School Year
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By Shea Black and Janelle Ott
Student Government partners with the Miller-Keystone Blood Center to organize multiple blood drives each year to bring the Green Knight community together for a common cause of not only saving lives, but raising awareness for the need of blood. The goal of the event is to encourage students over the age of 16 and faculty staff members to donate blood and become regular donors outside of the school building.
Chelesa Rivenbark, Social Studies teacher, said. “My job is to oversee the overall function of the blood drive and ensure that all appointments were met.”
It was announced last year that if a student donates blood at least four times, they will be rewarded with a cord to wear at graduation. This gave many students the drive to return to the events throughout the school year and continue donating.
Vanessa Garren, senior, Student Government Treasurer, said, “I wanted to help save lives and get the cords for graduation, so I could feel accomplished and spread awareness.”
Photo Courtesy of Elijah Ceraul
Amber Krisukas, assistant principal, took time out of her day to donate blood. Krisukas signs up to donate at each and every blood drive.
Garren also encouraged students who are donating to start preparing a few days before, so they feel their best and do not get turned away like herself, along with other students in past years. The workers could not find a vein and her iron was far too low, so she could not donate blood. Drinking a lot of water, eating a healthy breakfast that morning, and taking vitamins is crucial.
Students go through different tests the day of their donation to make sure they’re healthy enough to give blood for theirs and the receivers safety. The tests thoroughly check for blood sugar, blood pressure, iron levels, certain medication or drugs, along with other diseases. It is never too late for someone to donate blood.
Olivia Escobedo, senior, said “This was my first time donating blood at the school. I wasn’t scared this year and being a senior, I felt like it was a nice thing to do.”
Escobedo went on to say that even being a little nervous coming into this, the Miller-Keystone workers made it an enjoyable and comforting experience. If something were to go wrong, they would have matters under control.
Zach Metzgar, junior, agreed with Escobedo’s opinion on the workers and said, “The people were really nice. I was worried and stressed about getting my blood drawn, but they helped me stay calm.”
Some students and faculty have been donating since they were eligible and have never backed out on the chance.
Madacyn Snyder, senior, said, “As soon as I turned 16, I started giving blood. What use is it to me? I would rather help someone else out.”
Amber Krisukas, Assistant Principal, donated three times and believes that more schools across the country should offer this to their own community. Even if some students might be hesitant, she describes this as a selfless act that requires the slightest amount of time. It could be overwhelming, but everyone should consider trying something new.
Krisukas said, “You’ll find that overcoming your fear by facing something challenging will lead to a sense of accomplishment in knowing you helped others. If you set aside your own trepidation in the interest of service, it makes space for further generosity and selflessness to continue.”
Nothing else can help patients survive surgeries, chronic illnesses, cancer treatments, and traumatic injuries like blood can. It is important to remember that when one gives blood, others live.
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