According to the Red Cross, someone in  the U.S. needs blood every two seconds, and a single blood donation can save up to three lives. Alisal partnered with the American Red Cross on February 20th in the Multipurpose Room for students and staff to donate blood. 

Health Academy Coordinator Uriel Gutierrez was in charge of the blood drive. “This year we had 35 students and 5 staff members participating,” he said. 

This opportunity was open to all Alisal High students and staff who were “16 years or older, meeting certain height and weight requirements based on their age,” Gutierrez said. Students also needed to have a signed parent consent form.  

It’s also important to remember that an individual cannot donate blood if they have traveled outside of the United States, received a tattoo less than 3 months ago, have low iron, are under some sort of medication, or have any symptoms of a cold, flu, or other illness.  

Although it can be nerve wracking, students were determined to help their community. “Since this is my first time getting my blood drawn, I was a little nervous, but I remembered that small things make a difference so I was determined,” senior Catherine Jimenez said. 

Although students don’t receive monetary compensation, they did receive a t-shirt and snacks for their participation. Different students donated blood for different reasons. “What motivated me to donate blood was my God sister, she has heart problems so she’s had multiple surgeries so just knowing that my blood can help out with surgeries motivated me to do it,” senior Diego Carbajal said.

Every year Gutierrez sets a goal for the amount of blood they should collect, and this year the goal was 30 units. Although the goal wasn’t met, they came close, collecting 29 units. Gutierrez focused on the big picture, “Although we missed our goal by one unit, it’s important to remember we’re saving lives,” he said.

Blood donations are always needed. Go to redcross.org to find out where you can donate.