How Blood Donations Changed My Life

Blood Donations changed my life by giving me a goal to focus and strive towards my entire high school career. When it came to High School I never really put forth much effort in the way of extra curricular activities. I focused on making good grades and staying out of trouble long enough to graduate. I remember the intercom coming on my Freshman year announcing that a blood drive would take place the following Wednesday. I of course was underage and too small to donate at the time, but I recall looking up to the wave of Seniors wearing their “I saved a life” sticker, immediately knowing I wanted to be a part of that someday.  By the time sophomore year rolled around I was ecstatic.  I’d always wanted to go into the medical profession so I had no problems being around blood. My first donation day was a combination of excitement and nervousness but went off without a hitch. A group of four or five girls along with myself went in together. We made small talk while waiting for our information to be processed. Everyone was able to donate expect for my friend Maddie, who suffered from low iron.  I can honestly say the worst part was this tiny finger prick that measured my nutrition levels. Afterwards, students were munching on snacks and talking about everything that had happened that day, along with all the class we were getting to miss. Some were lying down due to dizziness but my body had no issue pumping out blood. Not only was it great to finally earn my sticker, and a T-Shirt, but I later that day leaned my school rewards honor cords at graduation to students who donate six or more times. This seemed like just a bonus to an already great cause. Finally there was an easy way to give back  without compromising a lot of time or energy. My friends and I began donating every time the blood drive visited my school, adding a new T-Shit to our collection every time. I am now a Senior in High School and have recently completed my sixth donation. Blood Drives gave me something beneficial to focus on throughout my entire High School experience, when I would have otherwise been lost.  I only hope that I can somehow impact others to donate and feel the experiences that I have felt. Maybe by seeing me and my friends walk during graduations, proudly wearing our cords, younger students, and older individuals alike, will be more willing to take a step towards donating and potentially saving the lives of others. I hope to continue donating and eventually move up to double-count donations. Maddie was with me on my last donation, her iron levels were up and she too was able to save lives with me.  By reaching my goal of six blood donations, I have come to realize that almost anyone can help save a life and I am honored to be a part of such a giving community.