High schoolers are vital to the blood supply… now they’ve got a message for you

The summer months are typically the most challenging for maintaining a healthy blood supply. That’s because high school blood drives, like the one Little Elm High School (LEHS) hosted on May 7, account for 25% of all blood donations.

Now, imagine that a quarter of the blood supply becomes unavailable in June, July and part of August. Blood donations fluctuate throughout the year, but the need for blood is high year-round. That’s why it’s crucial for donors to step up during these months while students are enjoying summer break. Students offer valuable perspectives on the need for blood and the importance of donating.

“Saving a life to me means somebody gets a redemption to do whatever they dream of doing,” said Zoe Korfiatis, a Little Elm student who donated at the May 7 blood drive. “Everyone has dreams and aspirations, things they want for their life, and they get to fulfill those.”

Donating Isn’t the Only Way to Help

While Korfiatis made a difference by donating blood, there is more than one way to get involved with saving lives by making donation possible. The blood drives at Little Elm are hosted by the school’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter. HOSA member Alexis Forson is grateful to be involved in helping host the drive.

“To me, I just think of what this kind of act can mean for so many people, and I’m so appreciative that I get to be a part of it,” Forson said. “I’ve never been able to donate, which sucks because in my heart, I’ve always wanted to. So, donate for someone who can’t. It’s a sacrifice, but it’s a sacrifice for someone else’s life.”

While Forson and Little Elm HOSA hosted the blood drive, you can host one yourself or with a group, such as a church group or running club, by becoming a drive coordinator, and a Carter BloodCare blood drive consultant will assist you.

Chelsea Nicoli is the faculty adviser for LEHS HOSA, and watching her students put on this blood drive gave her great pride.

“The kids take over, and they do everything,” Nicoli said. “They organize online signups; they organize lunch signups. They get down there, and they’re on the megaphone talking to kids, speaking in front of 500 people. Our signups filled up in two days; we had over 80 because they’re marketing and getting the word out. The kids shine in this moment, it’s really great.”

Anyone who has a passion for helping others can do it. Donating blood or hosting a drive is also a great way to honor or show support for those you know who need or have needed blood, which is why LEHS HOSA student Abdullah Abunabaa is a blood donor.

“I know a family friend who needed blood after getting in a severe car accident, and it saved their life, which is why I always try to donate blood whenever it’s possible,” Abunabaa said. “Blood donation is important because it saves a lot of lives. It is a resource we can give back to our community.”

Concerned or Worried? We’ve Got You

If you have any fears or concerns, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help. But don’t just take it from us; LEHS HOSA students Jennifer Kimuyu and Evelynn Ortega have you covered.

“I know a lot of people are scared of it because they don’t know what’s happening,” Kimuyu said. “But I would assure them that the phlebotomists know what they’re doing.”

Ortega donated at the blood drive and assisted with the setup and facilitation as well, an all-day commitment.

“Don’t be nervous to donate blood,” Ortega said. “It’s a really good way to help people, and it doesn’t really hurt. If you’re nervous about donating blood, just understand you’re helping someone who needs it.”

The Best Time to Get Involved is Now

Each LEHS HOSA student interviewed shared a similar message: Help is needed during the summer months, and blood donation is crucial.

“By donating, you’re accomplishing so much, and you’re able to give so much back to those who need it,” said Rebecca Lytle. “I would encourage others to donate blood. Even though it’s a small action, it can really make an important impact in the lives of those who need blood. I think it’s a really good deed that everyone should consider doing.”

“I would encourage anyone to donate blood. Because blood can save up to three lives,” said Dino Arellano. “It’s important to step up and take initiative to help those in your community who need it.”

You can sign up to donate blood today.