On October 16th, Fieldston hosted its first blood drive of the school year. Community members sixteen or older were eligible to donate a pint of blood. They departed the drive, held in the Commons, with colorful strips of gauze tied around their arms. Fieldston traditionally holds two blood drives per school year: one in the fall and one in the spring. The blood drives serve as an opportunity to help the New York community and save up to three lives per donation.
This year, Ariana Sidman (Form V) and Zoe Ventura (Form V) collaborated in planning the blood drive. While recounting the process, Sidman explained Fieldston’s partnership with the New York Blood Center.
“Fieldston connects with a representative from the New York Blood Center. Together, along with a faculty advisor, Dr. Banks, we coordinate the date, logistical details and advertising. The blood drive representative associated with NYBC brings flyers and posters, so advertising is relatively easy,” said Sidman.
Despite Sidman and Ventura’s initial goal of 50 donations this fall, only 36 people registered and 25 donations were received.
Sidman stated, “Fieldston has a historically low donation history. Fall of 2023, we only got 25 donations. However, there is a list of factors we attempt to address in preparation for the Spring drive that will hopefully raise our numbers significantly. This spring, our goal is to have 40 donations, in which we need around 60 sign-ups.”
Once the blood is drawn, it is then sent to a processing center where it is tested for blood type and diseases such as hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis. Whole blood donations are separated into transfusable components such as red cells, platelets and plasma. Suitable units of blood are then stored and shipped to hospitals when needed.
Fieldston students who are eligible are highly encouraged to donate at the next blood drive this spring. As Sidman said, “You never know what you may need in the future, and donating your blood ensures that patients in need of transfusions get the care they deserve.”
