On behalf of Chardon High School, Mrs. Grantham and Student Council are holding a blood drive for any and all willing students and staff at the school. The scheduled day is Thursday, November 7th from second period to eighth. Sign ups for all participants are in the cafeteria during lunch periods starting Monday, October 28th. Students who are 16, require two forms to sign up: one signed by a parent giving express permission to donate blood and one form also signed not only by a parent but by teachers of the periods that they will be giving blood. If 17 or older, only the second form is required.
Giving blood is a great way to give back. All blood types are needed and appreciated, however when entering the gym all donors get shuffled in to booths to answer personal questions that may or may not prohibit them from giving blood. It is important to answer these questions truthfully for the safety of the donor and anyone receiving that blood. Most questions involve medications and prior activities, both sexual and recreational. After answering these questions a small sample of blood is pricked from a finger, and then tested. Then comes a short waiting period before the donor is placed on a table, and is able to give blood. Most students and staff feel little pain, but some get dizzy or sick, in which case there is a nurse available to help. Immediately after giving blood, water and juice is provided. When that is finished, donors have permission to walk; there is a table of food that is provided to refuel before they finish off the day.
Giving blood is important to those who need it, and in some cases can mean the difference between life and death. Only a pint of each persons blood is taken, and in a matter of months, it is replenished. Mr. Herner for example, has donated over nine gallons of blood in his lifetime and is hoping to donate as much as his father had; a total of 13 gallons. Student Council strongly urges students and staff to take a small amount of time from the hustle and bustle of their lives and give blood. It can be a great way to help others and make you feel better about yourself.