On March 24, 2023, the FBLA set up hospital beds and sanitized needles in the library as local phlebotomists prepared to collect blood donations from the student body. Almost everyone was encouraged to attend and contribute to the event, as long as they met the physical requirements.

There were several conditions that had to be followed before blood can be donated. Individuals had to be vetted prior to the procedure in order to qualify for the donation in order to prevent any mishaps. In addition, donors had to be 16 or older, and those underage had to have parental permission. The general student body was encouraged by the INOVA phlebotomists and nurses to provide blood to those in need. 

Students begin the process by discussing any medical issues with professionals in order to find out whether they are eligible or not. The health screenings include checking iron by pricking the donors finger, hereditary, health history and conditions, etc.  Once this premature process is completed, the individual is hooked up to a needle and given snacks in the meantime to prevent fainting.

After the donated blood is collected, it is sent to the hospital to undergo further screening. “It goes back to the hospital and they go and check it out for whatever kind of impurities they’re looking for,” FBLA sponsor Roxana Cromwell said. “Blood supply that is used in hospitals and in emergency situations is cleared of any impurities. They go and separate what they need from it and try to get as much use out of a pint of blood as possible.”

Senior Taylor Cheek participates in blood drives to not only contribute to the community, but to maintain an unofficial family tradition. “The first time I donated blood, my grandma had a surgery and she couldn’t do it for a while so I did it in honor of her,” Cheek said. “So it’s kind of been a small little special thing for me and my mom. Almost like a tradition.”

Although phlebotomists have seen just about everything, students face new experiences all the time. Despite her experience with donating blood, this year left her feeling upside down, literally. “ I got a little bit lightheaded at first, so they reclined my chair, put my feet up and gave me ice packs just to calm my system.” Cheek said. “Again, everyone is so kind when I am donating blood.”

“Once you’ve done it once, and you haven’t had any adverse reactions to it, it’s something that feels good doing,” Cromwell said. FBLA holds opportunities every year to donate blood and contribute to the community.