Fort’s annual Blood Drive, held on Thursday, November 21st, 2024, was a successful event where over 85 students, staff, and faculty members donated blood. The drive exceeded expectations, helping hospitals meet their needs and supporting patients.
Fort organized the drive with the New York Blood Center which was held in the Girls Gym from 7:30 A.M. to 1:30 P.M. Students who wished to donate were required to submit parental consent forms and their student IDs before proceeding. Afterward, they received barcode IDs and were guided to stations to fill out questionnaires.
“We had to answer questions concerning diseases and any interferences with blood like HIV, AIDS, STDs, or pregnancies,” said Oscar Li, a junior blood donor. “Afterward, we were transferred to a seating area where we would be screened to check if we were eligible to donate. The process was long but fun. It was fun to talk to my friends during the process and I’m glad that I was able to donate with them.”
Once donors were approved, they were taken to a donation station. The entire process lasted about ten to fifteen minutes, during which participants were allowed to talk to each other, listen to music, or simply relax.
“I wasn’t really nervous, it just felt like an annual checkup where [doctors] take my blood,” said junior Lihui Zhang, a first-time donor. “If your body can handle it, I recommend [donating blood].”
After donating, donors were led to a recovery area where they could enjoy snacks and drinks that would help them regain their energy.
“You save a life, feel good about yourself, and get free food all at once,” Zhang added.
For some, the experience was familiar. “This was my third time donating blood at [Fort Hamilton High School],” said senior Joanna Ascher. “It’s an odd thing when you really think about it—getting your blood sucked out of you for some time and then going about your day like normal, but it really is such an important thing to do if you are able.”
After the event, the collected blood was prepared for testing and processing, ensuring it would be ready for patients in need. “After testing and separation of cells, these donations will help as many as 219 patients in area hospitals,” said Javier Jiminez, Fort Hamilton’s account manager at the New York Blood Center.
In total, 89 students and faculty registered to donate, with 67 successfully donating. Among those, 56 were first-time donors. Despite 22 deferrals, the event still made a positive impact on local hospitals.
The blood drive shows how a simple act can lead to a significant change. When the opportunity arises again, think about stepping up – you never know whose life you might help save.
