Earlier this week, the O’Connell Health Services Club held the first of two blood drives scheduled for this year. Members of the club, led by Olivia Giaquinto, worked hard to promote and staff the event, which was one of the school’s most successful drives to date. As a result, 61 units of blood were donated through INOVA Blood Donor Services to meet critical needs in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia. This can ultimately provide blood for 183 patients.
Special thanks--and a very cool T-shirt--were extended to all blood donors, with particular recognition given to many first-time donors, and others who stepped up to give blood when they heard more donors were needed.
“It warms my heart knowing our community totally supports these blood drives, answering the call when the need is great,” said Kathy Black, the club moderator. “As a recipient of someone’s gift of life, I am alive today. For that my family and I are truly grateful.”
During the holidays there is usually a critical blood shortage. If anyone would like to be a blood donor, please visit an INOVA Blood Donor Services center. On Tuesday, Mar. 24, O’Connell will host the spring blood drive. Be a donor by giving the gift of life.