On April 23 Walkersville High School’s National Honor Society hosted their annual blood drive. Many students and teachers participated. The blood collected will be essential for treating those who need blood due to trauma, surgery, anemia, and other medical treatments. After the blood is donated it doesn’t go straight to hospitals. First it goes to a blood center for processing. It is then tested and separated into components like red cells, platelets, and plasma. Finally, it’s stored until it’s needed by hospitals or clinics. One blood donation can save up to three lives. Additionally, these blood donations promote the well-being of the community as people step up to help others.
Community building is definitely what occurred at WHS. Ms. Humphries donated blood because “[she] babysat a little boy, who unfortunately passed away, and one way to honor him is to donate, especially when since he passed from a blood disorder.” Marie Kleimola donated because “it is a good cause and saves three lives.” Jonathan Knott said, “I might as well. Other people need blood, and I have some to spare.” While Marilyn Hassett explained, “I am donating blood because I want to make a difference. I want to help as many people as possible.” Everyone had their reasons to donate, but most just wanted to help.
Mrs. Skena and the National Honor Society volunteers organized and ran the blood drive at WHS, but they couldn’t have done it without help. They would like to thank Joann Bell, head of the American Red Cross blood drive workers who came out and drew blood. Pamela Bell signed people in and kept track of students who were helping. Pamela is a retired nurse who used to work in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for premature babies. The NICU always needed blood for the babies. Pamela is not able to donate blood herself, so she helps at blood drives to connect to the cause. WHS was grateful for her help as well as the help of those students who offered to help during the blood drive. Mrs. Skena would like to say “thank you” to everyone involved, from blood donors to helpers. It takes a village, and Walkersville always steps up when needed.
