Student Senate will be hosting a blood drive on March 12 at G. Ray Bodley in the LGI. The blood drive will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. To donate blood, you must be at least seventeen years old or sixteen with signed parental consent.

Donors are required to bring identification. Students may use their student ID or license.

Sophomore Paige Kingsley said, "My first time donating I didn't wait the recommended fifteen minutes. I thought I was fine, but as I was walking back to class I felt very dizzy. If you donate, you definitely need to stay and eat something."

The Red Cross recommends that people who donate should get at least eight hours of sleep prior to donating. On the day of donating you should not skip meals. Athletes are also advised to avoid vigorous exercise on the day of donation.

Work-based Learning Coordinator and Student Senate Co-Advisor Mrs. Ferlito said, "Blood donation is important. Half an hour of your time can help save the lives of up to three people so I would advise students to donate if you can."

Think that a new tattoo means you cannot donate? Well, think again! If you received a tattoo in an unregulated parlor, you must wait twelve months. However, donors will not be deferred for a tattoo that is applied:

• by a state-regulated entity
• using sterile needles
• with ink that is not reused

Everyone who donates at the Blood Drive will receive a Red Cross water bottle, as well as snacks and refreshments. It is recommended that donors wait approximately fifteen minutes after donating and eat to replenish blood sugar and re-hydrate.

Jaime Ingersoll, Administrative Assistant at G. Ray Bodley, said, "I donate because my background is in the Fire Service. I've been to a lot of accident scenes and I've seen the need firsthand. If you can save somebody, it's not a lot to give."

If you are interested in helping recruit donors, contact Mrs. Ferlito in the Career Exploration Center. Amazon gift cards will be awarded to the two students who recruit the most donors!