CLAYMONT, Del. –The Archmere Academy Fall Semester Blood Drive held Tuesday, November 11 collected more than 20 lifesaving donations as the critical Thanksgiving holiday period approaches.
The Auks blood drive also welcomed several first-time donors and was a testament to the dedication of blood drive coordinator Kyle Carty, a theology teacher at Archmere Academy, a Catholic School within the Diocese of Wilmington.
“Mr. Carty came in and told us how many people it could help and what it’s all about,” said first-time donor Owen Kates, a junior at Archmere. “He goes around to every classroom.”
For many students, it was an inspiring first experience. “I just want to give back to the community,” said 16-year-old first-time donor Josephine Fiss, a junior. “I know there’s a lot of hospitals that need blood.”
For first-time donors Isabella Fazio and Madison Gates, also juniors at Archmere, family inspiration played a role. “My Mom usually gives blood, and she says it’s a good deed,” Madison said. “Once they put the needle in, it’s not that bad, and I’m scared of needles.”
Overall, the Archmere Academy drive booked 28 appointments and collected 24 units of lifesaving blood for BBD. Students also engaged in BBD’s clever “Green Flag” campaign, which aims to reframe donating blood as a cultural green flag.
High school blood drives play a crucial role in introducing and educating students about the lifesaving importance of donating blood, while offering them a meaningful way to engage in community service. Students can also earn scholarship money through BBD’s High School Scholarship Program, which awarded nearly $22,000 in scholarships last school year to students across 40 area high schools.
To inquire about hosting a blood drive at your high school or community organization, click here. Blood donors can give every 56 days. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit delmarvablood.org or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.
