The time is upon us again when members of the Fieldston community aged 16+ rush to the Commons for the most unconventional drive of the year: it’s blood drive season!
Previously helmed by the Future Medical Professionals Club, Form V Students Ariana Sidman and Zoe Ventura now lead the blood drive. Their rationale for continuing the bi-annual event is simple: increase engagement and save lives. Unlike many drives that work to aid an issue solely in the short term, a single blood donation can save up to three lives. Thus, a trip to the Commons this spring means much more than a momentary break from the day and an excuse to get an apple and cookie; it could be the critical difference between life and death.
Thus, a trip to the Commons this spring means much more than a momentary break from the day and an excuse to get an apple and cookie; it could be the critical difference between life and death.
So, how many eligible donors presently contribute? “Not so many,” claims Fieldston Blood Drive Leader Sidman. When asked why events like blood drives are crucial, Sidman shared, “According to the NYBC, 38% of the U.S. is eligible to donate blood, yet only 7% do. Zoe and I are motivated to increase that number, spread awareness about the significance of donating blood and educate the general public.” All the more, the vital nature of blood donations is not only a necessity of the present but a need that will persist into the future. A third of people will need blood in their lifetimes, NYBC says. Sidman detailed, “we are all deeply impacted by this issue. It is important that we help those in need, especially preventable deaths.”
“According to the NYBC, 38% of the U.S. is eligible to donate blood, yet only 7% do. Zoe and I are motivated to increase that number, spread awareness about the significance of donating blood, and educate the general public.”
co-leader of the blood drive Ariana Sidman (Form V)
Luckily enough, just about anybody can be a blood donor! The New York Blood Center’s (NYBC) eligibility requirements detail that donors aged 16 must have parental consent, be in good health standing, and be free of illness symptoms for at least 72 hours. Nonetheless, factors like piercings, tattoos or travel experiences could impact one’s ability to donate, and the New York Blood Center can be consulted should any questions or issues arise.
Participating in the blood drive is a wonderful way to create imminent change and make a direct impact in the lives and conditions of others. While leader Sidman’s desire to involve herself with NYBC stems from her “[passion for] the medical field” as “it is something [she] want[s] to pursue in the future,” participation in the Blood Drive is not limited to those eager to venture down the medical path. Literary lovers and active athletes alike are encouraged to participate, alongside any member of the Fieldston community. So, do your due diligence and sign up for the April 30th Fieldston Blood Drive today!
