NHS Blood Drive

Valentine's is a season of love - why not share the love with the gift of life?

On Valentines Day, February 14th, The National Honor Society is hosting a blood drive with Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, here on campus from 08:00 AM to 02:30 PM. Blood Drives tend to be the main event for NHS clubs all around the country and this year they’ve finally been able to bring one to Neuwirth. 

Blood drives are all-day community events in which an organization sets up a mobile unit to collect blood from volunteers. The blood is used for things like blood transfusions, and blood drives maintain that supply of blood which is especially useful for emergencies. Blood shortages happen regularly, and can cause a delay in treatment for patients, causing people to become more ill or even die. Since blood cannot be manufactured outside the body, has a limited shelf life, and is used up pretty quickly, the supply must constantly be replenished by generous blood donors.

Valentine's Day is all about friendship, love, and giving, and what’s more loving, friendly, and giving than a community Blood Drive? It’s giving a bit of yourself back to the community in the most literal sense. Donating blood saves lives, and the need for blood is constant: Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. One blood donation can save up to 3 lives. Blood is essential to help patients survive surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. Maintaining diversity in the blood supply is essential. Some blood types are quite rare and are likely to be found among people with shared ancestral origins.

Donating blood is good for the donor too! You’ll get a free mini-physical and learn about your blood type. Your blood will be tested for many diseases. This mini-physical can offer great insight into your health and potentially detect an underlying medical condition or health risk. Your body will make new blood. Some people, especially athletes, donate several times a year because they know that it is like a “tune-up” for their bodies. In addition, it is a great way to help your community, particularly the children at Children’s Hospital, and only takes about one hour of your time! Donating blood is one of the best gifts you can give to help patients and honor loved ones. It’s very personal, and you’ll feel amazing knowing that your donation has a direct impact on the life of a stranger in dire need.

Should you be interested in participating in the Blood Drive by donating some blood, it’s important to know that only those who are 17, meaning those who’re probably Seniors, and older are allowed to donate their blood. This also means that parents, siblings, or other people you know who are over the age of 17 can also sign up to donate blood. The hospital is looking for at least 25 people to sign up in order to hold the event, so it is highly recommended that you sign up at the link below to register.

Neuwirth Leadership Academy- Mobile Blood Drive 2/14/2023

[Also know that those who sign up will also receive a free dress pass for that Friday alongside some Valentine's goodies]