Paloma Valley students explain benefits of giving blood
LifeStream nurses hold up a poster signed by donors. (Photo by Jodi Ann Sanchez) By Miley Lundstrom, Paloma Valley student journalist On O...
By Miley Lundstrom, Paloma Valley student journalist
On Oct. 24, Paloma Valley High School's Key Club hosted its bi-annual Blood Drive in the gymnasium. Over 50 students and staff participated in the event, which raised multiple liters of blood for different hospitals in the Menifee area.
“We’ve been doing blood drives here for the last 28 years at Paloma Valley,” said Mrs. Lennertz, the Key Club advisor, “with Life-Stream and Red Cross. We like to do it with them because they keep all of the blood here locally in our hospitals for our citizens."
Blood drives are a great way to save the lives of multiple hospital patients in need of extra help. Even one blood donor can save up to seven babies at one time. Students in the school recognized the opportunity, and multiple teens showed their ability to step up and overcome their fears of needles.
“I didn't even think I was going to do it when I got in,” said Tristan Matthews, a Key Club member who donated. “I’ve never had my blood drawn. I was afraid of the fact that they're taking your blood. It was good; everyone there was nice. I did it out of good spirit. I think it's a good thing to do.”
Snacks and beverages were provided as a form of incentive to donate. Although blood drives and needles may be a daunting thought, the blood can support and save multiple lives at a time.
“It's great to help others. Blood is probably one of the most used supplies in hospitals. Being part of the reason why someone can live another day is so rewarding,” said Kayla Panlilio, one of the Key Club’s secretaries.
To participate in a blood drive and donation site near you, visit https://giftoflife.lstream.org.
