LOS ALAMITOS, CA — On Tuesday, April 9, Los Alamitos High School hosted a school-wide blood drive through the American Red Cross Club in the gym. American Red Cross Club president Addison Butler and the club’s teacher advisor, Ms. TiraTira, took the lead in preparing this event for Los Al. They encouraged as many students and teachers as possible to participate, fulfilling their goal of 100 sign-ups. Due to the low staff, only around 60 people were able to donate, but the club still met its goal. On the day of the drive, Red Cross Club set up everything inside the gym making sure check-in, snacks, and drinks were ready for students who came by from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
“While I was waiting to start drawing blood I was extremely nervous and having a semi-panic attack, but then after I was finished I felt happy that I could help people out,” said Los Al freshman Mia Andrade.
Throughout the day, students checked in with their school IDs, filled out the rapid pass form, and checked their iron levels. The blood draw took around 20-45 minutes, and some students did the “Power Red,” which is a bigger donation. After students finished, they received time to rest and were offered food and drinks. Afterward, they checked out and received a $10 gift card and a free T-shirt before returning to class.
“I was extremely nervous to donate blood because I had never done it before. Honestly, the whole process went pretty well,” said junior Johnathan Sehremelir. “However, at the end of the actual process, I felt extremely nauseous and lightheaded.”
A few local businesses also supported Los Al’s blood drive. 7 Leaves Cafe provided donors and staff with strawberry hibiscus drinks, Teofilo Coffee Company offered coffee to Red Cross staff, and Alamitos Donut Shop gave donuts to donors and staff.
“I was a little nervous. It was my first time, and it hurt when she put the needle through. Then I was just sitting back, but overall it was good. I felt sore after, and sleepy,” said junior Naydelin Escobedo.
Griffins lent a helping hand to people in need by donating blood for a good cause and surpassed the Red Cross Club’s donation goal.
“I would participate in a blood drive again because I believe [in] contributing to the community,” Johnathan Sehremelis said. “People who require blood for life or death purposes are extremely consequential to humanity and our health.”
