Have A-Positive experience: donate blood

Cyan Clements

ANNIKA NYBORG, Staff Writer
March 8, 2023

It’s that time of the year again! The American Red Cross will be back at GHS on March 17th. The blood drive will be in the field house and will run the entire school day.  All GHS students and staff are eligible to donate blood. If you donated back in December you are able to donate again. 

The Blood drive will take place on St. Patrick’s day. The staff will be dressed in green to make the experience a bit more enjoyable. Volunteers will receive a t-shirt after their donation. 

“I’m really praying for people to donate this time,” GHS World Language teacher Rayanne Menery-Sammataro said. “We didn’t hit our mark last time, so it is important for people to sign up. One person can save three lives.” 

If you are interested in donating there are several requirements:

  • Must weigh at least 110 pounds. 
  • Must be in good health and feeling well. 
  • Must provide an ID and/or proof of age. Driver’s license, Green Card, State ID, Employee ID, Passport, Student ID, and Military ID are all acceptable proofs of authentication. 
  • You can not donate if you are pregnant, anemic, have been recently pierced or tattooed, or have donated in the last 56 days. Certain kinds of drug use or sexual behaviors may also prohibit one from donating.

If you want to be feeling your best when you donate blood, here are some steps to help you:

  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep the night before your appointment. 
  • Have a healthy breakfast and lunch. 
  • Stick to lean proteins such as lean meat, cheese, and yogurt. 
  • Complex carbohydrates like bread, cereal, and fruit are also good to have. It is highly recommended to avoid fatty food. 
  • Most importantly, stay hydrated. Drink extra water than you normally would, and drink more water about 10-30 minutes before you donate. 
  • On the day of the blood drive, wear comfortable clothes. Your shirt needs to fit comfortably over your elbow. 

If you have any more questions or concerns about donating blood go to the American Red Cross website: https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/blood-donation-process/donation-process-overview.html