TOWAMENCIN- North Penn High School prides itself on the many opportunities it provides students to give back to the community. Whether that be through food drives, making cards for seniors, or volunteering at community events, there are so many ways to give back. But who knew that one way would simply involve a needle and blood?

 On Wednesday, January 31, North Penn students took turns giving back to their community by donating blood for those in medical need. The drive was run through the American Red Cross and allowed students to show their love for others this Valentine’s Day season. Throughout the day, students who signed up and qualified to donate blood were excused from their classes to have their blood drawn, which was then preserved and shipped to different hospitals. 

“It was amazing to be able to help so many people in such an easy way. I probably would have never thought to donate if it wasn’t so quick and available. Everyone working was so nice and patient with me. I would do it again in a heartbeat,” North Penn High School junior Sarah Salem gushed. 

Although blood donations are needed for various reasons, whether for accident victims, individuals undergoing surgery, or cancer patients, the importance of donating blood is often overlooked. Without blood donations, many lives would be lost or at risk. By offering this blood drive, many students were informed about the importance of giving blood and also felt the rewards of helping save lives.

“I would hear stories about people who donated blood to help save others, but I never really understood exactly how important it is that more people get involved and continue to donate blood,” North Penn High School senior Miranda Wesolowski stated. “It feels great knowing that you could be saving someone’s life without even knowing them. Overall, I am very happy that North Penn gave us this opportunity”.  

While giving blood can be daunting for many people, including younger high school students, there was an outstanding number of individuals who were willing to push past the discomfort and have their blood drawn. 

“This was my first time having blood drawn, and I will admit I was very nervous,” Senior Kaitlyn Connolly shared. “I kept reminding myself that it was for a good cause and that I would be helping make a difference. The people from the American Red Cross were great and overall I felt like it was truly a unique way to help out those in need”. 

After a successful day of blood donations, North Penn hopes to continue this tradition and encourage more students to come out in the years to come.