As of last month, the American Red Cross announced a national blood shortage, with supplies dropping roughly twenty-five percent since August. The lack of blood in storage is partially due to the numerous weather disasters that plagued the country in the past couple months. Locally, much of New England experienced flash flooding upon the arrival of Hurricane Lee last month. Obstacles like these prevent donors from giving blood and also inflict injuries on people which require blood transfusions to help them recover. 

Tens of thousands of donations are needed to bring the Red Cross’ inventory back to where it once was. There’s a need for any blood type, however, type O is especially in high demand. 

As community members, we have the opportunity to reverse this shortage by donating blood. Students and faculty of GHS can participate in the annual blood drive, taking place on December 8th. Happening in the field house, the blood drive is open to any students older than 16 who’re looking to donate. 

Anyone 17 or over can donate, and students who are 16 can donate with parental consent. Additionally, you must weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and can only donate if you feel well leading up to the appointment. Anybody with a chronic illness, depending on what it is, can give blood as long as their health is under control and they’re receiving treatment. Specific medications can hinder the ability to donate until a certain amount of time has passed since the last dosage. Facilities also check where you have traveled in the past months to ensure you don’t have a disease which can be transferred through blood. 

Although not everybody is able or willing to give blood, awareness is key in this situation. By asking family and friends to donate, you are contributing to the rising collection of blood donations which saves lives every day. 

To donate blood on December 8th: see Ms. Menery Sammataro in room 1213 to sign up.