By Logan Wilson ’20

Throughout the United States, the need for blood donations is dire. To help alleviate this need, Chaminade seniors gave the gift of life during the school day on Friday, March 15.

Under the guidance of Mr. Vincent Jeffery ‘04 and the assistance of the National Honor Society, more than 110 seniors had the opportunity to donate. The New York Blood Center ran the event and assisted students throughout the whole process. In fact, the New York Blood Center is one of the largest community-based, non-profit blood collection and distribution organizations in the United States.

The event would not have been possible without the seniors that donated, “I loved working at the blood drive because it really made me feel like a part of the Chaminade community,” noted Benjamin Szemerenyi ‘19. “It gave me a chance to assist my fellow students who do such a great service by giving blood.”

Since the New York Blood Center provides to a wide range of people, students will most likely never get to meet the recipients of their donations. However, the seniors know that the gratitude in the recipients’ hearts is thanks enough.

“Giving blood is such an easy way to help people who are really in need. I think it’s important to do what we can for people who are really in need,” noted Nicolas Baylis ‘19. “I think about people who lose family members, and how a small amount of blood from my arm can save a life.”

According to American Red Cross, one donation can save the lives of up to three people. This fact alone exemplifies the importance of donating blood, and the generosity from the seniors can go a long way.

Mr. Vincent Jeffery ‘04 explained the significance of donating by saying, “If you give blood, every drop will get used because of the high demand. The seniors’ blood is going to save someone’s life or at least help those who are sick get better. These guys should feel really good about themselves because they can know that it will go to someone who really needs the help.”

As this blood drive was a great success, juniors will have the opportunity to provide the gift of life on May 21.