Dinuba High School’s Med Academy has hosted its annual blood drive providing students and staff an opportunity to make a lifesaving impact. The event to students aged 16 and older aiming to collect over 100 donations of blood this year. One pint of blood means saving up to three Lives. The Blood Drive aims to demonstrate a meaningful way to give back to the community.
“Donating blood is a small act that can make a huge impact,” said Mr. Lichtenwaldt, one of the organizers of this event. He stressed that giving blood is more than just a chance to donate; it’s an opportunity to make a real difference. “Hospitals are always in need of blood for patients recovering from accidents, surgeries, and illnesses like cancer. This is an opportunity for students to do something truly altruistic and make a difference.” The Medical Academy has been hosting this event for 15 years in hopes of giving support to those in need and teaching students the value of giving back.
The donation process is simple and safe even when it comes to first-time donors. It begins with a quick blood test to check iron levels and then goes to the blood donation which could take up to 15 to 25 minutes. “The nurses are highly trained and most students say it’s not as scary as expected,” Mr Lichtenwaldt said. After donating, participants were able to enjoy snacks and juices which were donated by Pom Wonderful, a special Snoopy-themed T-shirt as a thank you for their selfless act.
“Many students are nervous at first but they leave feeling proud of what they have done,” Mr. Lichtenwalt said.
“This is one of those opportunities where you rarely regret participating and the impact is tremendous.” The Med Academy encourages students to sign up each year.
Other than saving lives, the blood drives highlight how caring Dinuba High School students and staff are when it comes to helping others. It helps show a sense of unity and how small acts of kindness can have a domino effect within the community.
“When we give selflessly we not only help others but also grow as individuals,” said Mr. Lichtenwadlt. Events like this remind us how the smallest things make a difference in the world.
