The Red Cross Club organized a Blood drive in the LEC on Friday, March 7 to address the critical shortage of blood supplies in local hospitals.
The event saw an impressive turnout of volunteers who gave their time, effort and blood to help save the lives of their community.
This cause is important as blood is necessary for many serious procedures. Having a blood shortage means that hospitals are slow to perform life-saving procedures for those who need them and often must transfer patients to other hospitals to receive the treatment they need.
“Blood goes to all patients who need it and is sorted by type. It’s super important because it saves the lives of those injured,” says Nancy Xue
The event was organized in partnership with the Red Cross who provided staff and equipment and ensured the event went smoothly.
The Red Cross Club also put in tremendous effort in planning and organizing the event. Not only did they set up and initiate the drive, but they also made promotional materials to advocate for the cause. Their video and slideshow were presented at chapel on March 6. In making these materials they planned to raise awareness for their cause to everyone interested in donating.
“We coordinated with Mrs. Aliff and Mrs. Ippolito to reserve the LEC for the day. Then, we confirmed that day with the American Red Cross and scheduled a site visit. A site visit is needed to confirm the space can handle the needs of the blood drive; electrical outlets, thermostat controls, enough tables and chairs, and a space for their staff to have a lunch break. From there, it was about promoting the drive. On the day of the event, the Red Cross Club greeted donors and made them feel welcome, checking them in and providing snacks after they donated,” says Andrew Perry, the club’s sponsor.
Those who donated reported Red Cross staff members performed a quick painless procedure and those nervous were reassured by the professionalism of the nurses.
This blood drive will help hospitals in our community and save many lives.
“Donating gave me an easy way to help others and I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to contribute to the community,” says Harley Cameron.
