Blood drive gets more than 50 prospective donors

Archbishop Carroll’s spring blood drive netted 51 potential donors but only 24 donations. The goal was 36 donations, according to Mrs. Janine Cahill, moderator of the Science National Honor Society, which organized the event.

“Many were unable to donate due to high blood pressure and low iron counts, but they were brave enough to try!” Mrs. Cahill said.

Of the 51 prospective donors, 29 were first timers.

The event happened from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in the East Gym. Among the donors was senior Lauren Martin.

“I really value helping other people,” she said. “I think it’s for a good cause.” 

Each donor provided give two bags of blood each, which is about two pints worth. After giving blood, donors sometimes can faint, become chilled, or become tired. To help with the recovery, volunteers provide donors with snacks and drinks. 

Among the volunteers was senior Kate Swayze.

“I am not donating blood,” Swayze said. “I am helping out here. I have to just make sure everyone who’s donating blood is OK, give them snacks, give them some apple juice. It’s good apple juice.” 

Junior Beth Wineburg helped, too.

“I am not donating blood, I’m volunteering.” she said. “Some of my friends came to donate blood, and I had to be there to help them off the tables.”

It is not too late for more students to support this non-profit organization. To find out more, go to RedCross.org/give. Also, the Red Cross will be back next fall for those who want to donate here.