Sophomore Government Holds a Blood Drive

On March 3rd, the Sophomore government worked with the New York Blood Center, a non-profit blood collection and distribution organization, to hold a blood drive. Around fifty people gave blood and in return received cookies, juice, water, stickers, and pins. 

The Sophomore government decided to organize the drive to make a difference in people’s lives. “The donated blood will go to a variety of people such as children battling cancer, people involved in accidents, as well as those with anemia. It could help up to one hundred forty-one people” stated Chinasa Ohajekwe ’22, a cabinet member in the Sophomore government.

The drive provided the Scarsdale community, especially high-school students, with the opportunity to help others. “Donating blood felt good, but it was also kind of stressful. They had to do tests to see if you were eligible and because a lot of people were deemed ineligible, I was nervous. However, once I finished giving blood, it made me feel that I was indirectly helping someone in need. That the blood could go on to save a life” said Shaelyn Fitzgerald ’22. “It felt really good being able to participate in the blood drive because even though I hadn’t given blood before, it was great to think that I do some good in the world right in Scarsdale High School” added Mackenzie Harpster ’22.

To donate blood each candidate had to be at least seventeen years old (or sixteen years old with written consent from a parent or legal guardian), weigh a minimum of one hundred ten pounds, and overall be in good health. Therefore, many underclassmen were unable to donate due to age restrictions. “I was disappointed that because I was only fifteen years old I couldn’t donate blood. However, I got to encourage my friends to do so. To think Scarsdale High School’s blood drive could save lives is remarkable” exclaimed Alex McCarthy ’22. 

Even though the blood drive had fewer donors than in past years, it was still successful. “In the future, the government hopes to organize more blood drives. If you ever have the chance to donate at any event, I highly encourage you to do so. It has the power to save lives” concluded Ohajekwe ’22.