On Jan. 15, Rockbridge County High School hosted their first annual blood drive in the new Innovation Center. This event used to be hosted in the Gymnasium at the high school. This event was organized by members of SCA, with the help of Nurse Aide and EMT students.
After three continuous years of hosting blood drives, students are faced with the challenge of donating more blood than the previous year. Students who donate blood receive a cord at graduation to symbolize that they have donated blood and are now eligible for a scholarship as a result of their donation.
With a variety of help from SCA, Nurse Aide, and EMT, each student is given a different task in order to make the event run smoothly. Freshman class treasurer Joe Vargas shares his job at the blood drive.
“As an SCA member, it is our job to put up and take down the tables, as well as oversee the whole event,” Vargas said.
Vargas then went on to share a perk of being on SCA.
“It’s cool that I am able to see my brother and hang out with all of the older SCA members,” Vargas said.
As a Nurse Aide student, junior Willow Rogers uses skills learned in class by applying them to the real world.
“A skill I have used during the blood drive is basic bedside manner. It’s helped me be able to talk to anyone and make them feel comfortable,” Rogers said.
Rodgers continued by sharing her favorite part of the blood drive.
“My favorite part about the blood drive is feeling helpful,” Rogers said.
A total of 60 students donated blood; sophomore Madeline White was one of them. White includes what enticed her to give blood.
“I donated blood because it feels good to know that I’m helping out someone in need,” White said.
White furthered by adding what her favorite part of the experience was and a piece of advice she would give to someone considering giving a donation.
“I really enjoyed it and I would recommend everyone to donate blood if they can. I would definitely make sure you eat beforehand though,” White said.
After a total of 33 units of blood were donated, students considered the event an overwhelming success. The Red Cross takes this blood and distributes it to those in need in the surrounding area.
