Article by Phoenix writer Sophia Paulich ’24:
On May 11, the Junior class was encouraged to participate in an annual blood drive as a way to give back to the community.
One of the most rewarding and fulfilling tasks a person can take on is donating blood which aids in saving countless lives. By partnering with the New York State Blood Center, 153 juniors had the opportunity to partake in the selfless act of donating blood. Because of the student’s generosity, 459 people were able to benefit from their donations.
Of the 153 donors, 21 juniors volunteered to donate on the ALYX machine. This machine collects two units of red blood cells instead of one, leaving behind the blood cells that are not used in donations. This entire procedure took over 40 minutes to complete.
Joshua Francois ‘24 explains, “This opportunity allowed me to assist others in a way I never have before, and it made me realize how lucky I am to even be able to help people in this way.”
This year, the blood drive gave juniors a way to help others in the community and learn how something so simple can make a lifelong difference for many people.
Every contribution was transported to hospitals throughout New York in dire need of blood. Luckily enough, most donations were used within one week.
