*Wendy is referred to by first name only in compliance with inability to provide a last name due to administrative order.
With the help of the school’s ASB Philanthropy Commissioners Corrine Gilkey (11) and Henri Tanghe (11), the annual Fall American Red Cross Blood Drive, for its third consecutive year, was held at the school’s gym on Tuesday, Oct. 15.
According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds a person in the U.S. is in need of blood. In a person’s lifetime, most people will know someone that is in need of blood.
“We hope students learn about the importance of blood donation, the ease of the process and the impact it has on people in need,” Scarlett Hyun (12), co-president of the school’s Red Cross Club, said. “It’s a way for students to become more aware of the medical challenges faced by others and how they can contribute to solutions.”
In order to donate blood, all students must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. For many students, donating blood allows for feelings of making a real difference.
Hannah Feng (‘24) a freshman at Amherst College, donated blood at the school’s blood drive last year.
“Donating blood through Torrey’s blood drive was an incredibly fulfilling experience,” Feng said. “The process was quick and easy — the nurses were friendly, professional and guided me through every step of the process. It was a complete no-brainer knowing that my singular donation could save multiple lives.”
The success of the blood drive would not be possible without the dedication and coordination behind the scenes.
“To prepare for the blood drive, we did a lot of work and communication with the Red Cross, as well as advertising and organizing dates, times and locations,” Gilkey said.
Donating blood assists patients who need transfusions due to surgeries, medical conditions, such as anemia or cancer, trauma and chronic illnesses, according to the American Red Cross. Nationally, it also supports hospitals and clinics in managing their blood supply.
“When you give blood, you’re offering hope and strength to someone in their most vulnerable moment,” Wendy*, a customer service worker at American Red Cross, said. “It is an extremely personal connection that happens with strong compassion.”
Hyun hopes for an even better outcome than last year’s blood drive and aims to continue growing it in her final year at the school.
“Donating blood is a simple yet impactful way for students to help save lives,” Hyun said. “Every donation can save up to three lives, and it is a way for students to contribute to their community, particularly in times of medical needs or emergencies.”
