DHS Donates the Gift of Life By: Ashley Mercado
Dunellen High School's annual Red Cross blood drive took place on Monday, February 1st during the school day. Students were given an appointment prior to the event, and once it was time they headed down to the auditorium where the stage was set up with beds. Outside the auditorium there was a sign-up table where teachers and a few other Dunellen citizens signed up to give blood. Once students and adults were done, they remained in the auditorium for 10-15 minutes where chips and water were available for donors to replenish themselves.
Dunellen has been participating in this event for a long time running. Mr. Boyle, English teacher at Dunellen High School and head of the Student Council, has been in charge of the blood drive since 2007. Every year since then, they have surpassed their goal. This year they donated 42 units, surpassing their goal by 7 units (pints of blood). Kayla Heluk, senior at DHS and president of the Student Council, says she was pleasantly surprised to see a total donation of 42 units.
They could have donated even more if it was not for an upcoming game that day. “About 70 people signed up, but some were athletes who had games that day, therefore they had to defer their donations to another time,” said Mr. Boyle.
So how do they do it? Mr. Boyle explains, “The Red Cross contacts the student council through me to set a date for the annual event. A Red Cross Blood representative then comes to Dunellen High School and explains the process to the students who run the blood drive,”
The whole process is fairly smooth for the Student council and they aren't any worries regarding the blood drive. Kayla Heluk says, “There aren't any worries that i'm aware of. Sure, students might not react well to the after effects. but as long as they take/took care of their body- they're fine.”
The blood drive is not benefitless; the donators get a satisfactory reward. Each pint/unit of blood can save up to three lives, and almost 20% of millions of donations come from high school students. “...This year we donated 42 units, therefore possibly saving 126 lives,” said Mr. Boyle.
“Knowing that we helped provide the gift of life to others that need it, is the biggest benefit of all,” said Kayla Heluk.
As for upcoming events, Kayla reveals that the Student Council is in the planning of a few fundraisers. “Look for the next tournament, coming your way! We always look for student input for other events the school wants to see. Just like spirit week, students asked and their voices were heard.”
Make sure to check back as Mr. Boyle says, “We will let The Argus know of any upcoming events.”
