TOWAMENCIN- It’s not often that someone has the chance to save three lives; however, ordinary people are presented with the opportunity daily thanks to the American Red Cross. The Red Cross routinely hosts blood drives nationwide to garner as much of the precious fluid as possible from willing participants. Blood, something every person has but some desperately need, is selflessly donated by regular citizens to ensure that it reaches those who need it most.

On December 15, 2016, the gymnasium of NPHS transformed into a center of blood gathering stations and equipment. Hosted by the Key Club, the American Red Cross workers arrived to facilitate a community blood drive.

“I sit at the table and scan the blood after it is donated,” said Herndon White of the American Red Cross, as he explained his role in the process, “and when that is done I ship the blood to be processed in the Red Cross lab.”

One blood donation has the potential to save the lives of three people. Hospitals and healthcare centers rely on blood to stabilize and save a patient who has lost a great deal of the necessary fluid in an accident or when suffering an illness. With blood often in short supply, every donation can be the salvation for someone in great distress.

Those who arrived at the high school were evaluated to ensure that they could successfully and safely give blood, and following the donation, were provided with snacks and drinks in order to regain their energy.  North Penn student volunteers sat with the donors and interacted with them, making sure that they were feeling well after they had given blood.

“We try to get as many members of the community to come out and donate,” stated Julie Mumford,  junior and Key Club Coordinator. “It’s the holiday season, so we want to help a lot of people.”

A number of North Penn students arrived with the goal of donating blood to those in need.

“There are many people that I know who have been in accidents or have had cancer, and I think that blood is so valuable,” said junior Liv Lundquist.

Donated blood is transported all over, some shipments going over state lines and others being sent to local hospitals.  One person’s blood donation might save the life of his or her next door neighbor.  The American Red Cross is planning to return to North Penn later in the school year for another session, and more willing donors will undoubtedly roll up their sleeves, understanding that giving their lifeblood might someday save a life.