On May 1st, 2023, The Blood Collection (TBC) made one of their routine trips to West Henderson High School’s old gym for an all-day blood drive hosted by WHHS JROTC.

TBC gives students a chance to give back to their community and prepare to do so in the future. Many students feel a sense of pride after donating blood. Not everyone is comfortable with giving blood which is why it makes those who do so much more impactful. The role of the phlebotomists is just as important since they are the ones preserving the life-giving blood and making sure it is safe for use.

Upon walking into the old gym students are greeted by smiles directing them towards a table to fill out the usual forms containing basic information. After finishing the form, it is time to wait for one of the workers to complete a physical ensuring the donated blood is a good fit. For most, the physical doesn’t deter their donation and is simply a precaution although there are cases in which students weren’t able to donate. If cleared, it is time to start drawing blood. The drawing of blood itself only takes around 10-15 minutes, but a wait of another 10 minutes is required to make sure the donor properly recuperates. 

Altogether it was an amazing opportunity for the students, staff and community. Their donations could quite possibly save a life and depending on how much blood is donated in general, they could save multiple lives. It’s not a decision for everyone, and understandably so, but TBC and the JROTC is thankful for those who do.