“Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. ” – American Red Cross Blood Services Web Page

On Thursday, April 26, 2018, I donated blood for the first time to the American Red Cross.  American Red Cross came to the high school to participate in FFA’s “Beef Up The Blood Supply” yearly event.  I will admit I was nervous, but it turned out to be not so bad.

That morning at school Ms. Kronen gave the donors water and snacks. We were told to stay hydrated and to make sure we ate a good breakfast.  When I arrived at the blood drive, I had to check in. The Red Cross required an ID of some sort, and luckily I found my old library card. Then all donors are must read the blood donation guidelines, as well as other basic information.

After what seemed like hours, my name was called and I went to an enclosed station where the nurses asked you more “personal” questions. They also checked our hemoglobin. For females it was required to be 12.5 or higher. Mine was a 13.9.