On Nov. 11, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the Student Government Association (SGA) held its annual blood drive. Students 16 and older with a parent’s consent were encouraged to donate blood. Students who donated received free food for their donation. Students scheduled their appointments via email and then reported to the auxiliary gym to donate. Although it was recommended to schedule an appointment in advance, walk-ins were also accepted if they provided met the requirements.

Participants in the blood drive must weigh at least 110 pounds and generally be in good health or feel well the day of the donation.  Each donation took around 45 minutes, but the blood-giving itself takes about 10 minutes.

Ninety-five percent of the population will need a blood transfusion at some time in their lives, but only five percent end up donating. According to redcrossblood.com, every two seconds someone in the U.S. is in need of blood. Many potential donors are have a fear of needles and/or have never considered donating blood. What they don’t know is that donating blood could potentially save the lives of up to three people.

However, some students at WJ did not have a good experience with the donation. Junior Anna Glazer  fainted during her donation.

“My personal experience was intense,” Glazer said., “I weigh exactly the required weight, maybe even a little less…”

Glazer went on to say she originally wanted to donate because the school encouraged her to do so, and because it seemed like a good thing to do.

“Donating blood is also supposed to be healthy for the donor,” Glazer said.

When asked what advice she would give to for people looking to donate, Glazer was supportive of the idea but also provided some insight on the process.

“I would tell them that although it takes a physical toll it has a great, rewarding feeling,” she said., “But there are some things you need to look out for. Make sure you are hydrated before your donation and drink lots of water. It’s really exhausting, so take it easy for the rest of the day afterwards.”

Despite her less-than-enjoyable experience, Glazer is optimistic about donating in the future.

“I think I’ll donate again,” she said. “Just not until I’m way over 110 lbs.”

The SGA will hold another blood drive on Feb. 26.