Did you know that every three seconds a blood transfusion is made? That's
approximately 40,000 pints of blood being transfused daily! Blood transfusions
occur when people need blood. Since there is no substitute for blood, it is
very important that hospitals have a large amount preserved to guarantee the
lives of patients.
Sixty percent of Americans are eligible to donate, however, merely five percent
do. Overall, in the New York and New Jersey area, only a total of three percent
donates. This is a very low amount compared to the total population.
“In NYC alone, there is a need for transfusion every three seconds,” said
Bryant Nurse Ida-Rosario. “Without these donations, lives would be lost.” The
NYBloodCenter is one of the largest, independent, non-profit blood centers.
Everyday, members visit various schools, churches, and hospitals throughout the
state to set up blood drives.
Last month Bryant High School held its annual Fall Blood Drive on October 26. It
was located in Gym Two and handled by student coordinator Ms. Papoutsis. In
total, The NYBloodCenter was able to collect 82 pints of blood by the end of
the day.
Most of the donors are high school students. “I think having blood drives in
schools not only exposes the students to donating but also understanding how
much of a difference they are making,” said senior Victoria Dumaguing.
There are a few requirements for donating. First and foremost, anyone over
seventeen can donate, with sixteen-year-olds needing parental consent. However,
you need to also be at least a 110 pounds and in good health.
Donating blood is very important. “I believe donating blood is imperative to
human survival,” said junior Stephanie Betancurt. Some people may be afraid to
donate or believe that their participation is ultimately futile, but they are
mistaken.”
Often, people make the mistake of not offering blood due to their fear of
getting punctured by the needle. Although the needle of the syringe looks
threatening, it only hurts momentarily. Only one pint of blood is taken each
time you donate and with that one pint, up to three lives can be saved.
If you're interested in donating blood and making a difference, go to
www.nybloodcenters.org for more information.