On April 25, 2024, the National Honor Society will be hosting a blood drive. Anyone is eligible to donate as long as they are healthy, at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, have not given blood in the last 56 days, and meet certain height and weight requirements (see chart). Before signing up, volunteers should also know that they will not be allowed to give blood if they are underweight, anemic, iron deficient, have severe asthma, HIV, high blood pressure, cancers involving blood cells, hepatitis, or have been exposed to malaria. A permission slip must be signed by a parent/guardian, regardless of age, prior to the donation day. Permission slips can be found outside of Mrs. Gilbert’s room (D10). 

Sign-ups will begin during all lunch waves on April 15th until April 24th. You must sign up during one of these lunch waves; there are no sign-ups the day of. When you sign up, you will be given a paper pass. You must have this pass to get out of class on the day of the drive. You will also need to bring a photo ID.

When signing up to donate, it is important to note that intense physical activity cannot be done following the donation. Heavy weightlifting and high-intensity workouts should also be avoided for at least 24 hours. This means that athletes should check team schedules to ensure they do not have a game on the 24th. 

All donors will be giving about one pint of blood. Donors will then be monitored for about fifteen minutes and will be provided with free food and drinks. It is essential to drink plenty of water the night before and the morning of the drive. Drinking water will make it easier to find your veins and will lead to an overall better experience without feeling sick. It is also important to eat a healthy breakfast and get a good night’s sleep.

In the hours following the drive, it is important to rest and drink plenty of water, so that fluids lost can be replenished. Patients should also try to eat foods rich in iron such as meat, leafy vegetables, fish, and beans, as this will help the body generate new red blood cells. It is normal to feel light-headed, and this can be combated by spending time lying down and resting. 

Please consider participating in a great cause. Donating blood can save up to three lives.

For questions about donor eligibility, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.