Lebanon Trail High School successfully hosted its fall annual blood drive of 2024 on Sept. 19, marking a notable increase in participation compared to previous years. This year, 115 students and staff members rolled up their sleeves to donate blood. Each donation has the potential to save up to three lives, highlighting the crucial role these events play in supporting healthcare needs.
The blood drive was a collaborative effort involving HOSA members, faculty, and the Carter BloodCare blood drive staff who worked to ensure the event ran smoothly.
In an interview with Amanda Mosier, Lebanon Trail’s HOSA Advisor, she shared insights into this year’s blood drive experience and also emphasized the importance of preparation before donating blood.
“There are some things that are difficult, like if you travel overseas, there are very strict rules,” she said. “There [are] weight rules, but another issue we do run into is with low hemoglobin levels. You have to start increasing your intake of iron a couple of weeks before the donation.”
Proper hydration is another critical factor that many overlook.
“You want to drink two or three times more water than you usually do before you donate, and then again after you donate,” Mosier said. “It helps with your blood pressure.”
When asked about the significance of donating blood, Mosier highlighted the profound impact it can have.
“It’s really important to understand our civic responsibility to help each other,” Mosier said.“Each regular blood donation can help three different patients who are getting a transfusion. right now there are people with diseases, like sickle cell anemia, who have to get regular transfusions, just to live an average life.”
The success of this year’s blood drive at Lebanon Trail High School serves as a reminder of the power of community action and the difference it can make in saving lives. As more individuals recognize their ability to make a difference through simple acts like donating blood, the potential for positive impact only increases.
