By Lani Burdette and Kimberly Nibungco
Staff Writer
Bishop Amat students, faculty and parents donated 83 units of blood during the school’s first blood drive of the school year on Wednesday, October 21 in the Carroll Center.
Students, who had to be 16 or older, started gathering at 8 a.m. and continued arriving until 2:15 p.m.
When donors arrived at the Carroll Center, several students greeted them in the lobby and had them sign in. After checking in, the donors sat on chairs where they waited to be called.
That’s where junior Megan Taylor came in to help.
She directed those waiting and she then explained what foods they needed to eat in order to make their blood healthy enough to contribute.
Once being cleared by the nurses, the donors stretched out on the hospital tables in the next area where they waited for the phlebotomist, or a specialist in veins, who would take their blood.
Margo Lyons was one of the volunteer blood takers.
“My job is really rewarding to me because I get to help many people in need,” she said.
After Taylor finished her task, she went into the donor area where she gave blood.
“I was a bit scared at first, but it feels really good to give my blood to someone who needs it,” Taylor said.
Senior Larissa Nobles is anemic, so she had to snack on foods before her donation so that her blood could be used.
“I really like the cause, and I’ve been waiting to do this for about two years so I’m glad I finally can help,” she said.
Ashley Aiono, junior, felt like a new person after donating her blood.
When she was under the needle, she felt nervous, but she instantly became comfortable with the friendly staff who was taking her blood.
“I am glad to make a difference and help and help people out.” Aiono said.
Senior Pascal Guerrera said he it felt nice to make a contribution to people who need the blood.
“I feel really good inside,” he said with a smile. “I feel like a hero.”
