According to the Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds,  That means more than 41,000 donations are required everyday (redcrossblood.org).

Mount Carmel junior Juston Woodard, one of the dozens of students who participated in the school’s fall blood drive, was tired after he donated one pint, but felt good about supporting the cause. “When the needle was first placed in my arm it hurt a little, but it was worth doing for the people that will need it.”

Woodard recommends it to other students, “because many people need blood and it makes you feel better as a human being.”

In an email sent to faculty members, Mrs. Julie Chappetto reported that 53 units of blood were donated.  Even though the numbers were low compared to recent blood drives,  she still was appreciative of all who donated, and pointed out that our students “were complimented by the staff on (their) behavior and politeness.”  Several Mount Carmel faculty and staff members also donated.

Another junior, Eddie Ceja, was excited about the opportunity to donate blood, “especially knowing it can save somebody’s life.” Like Woodard, Ceja felt better about himself after it was all over. “I plan to do it again when another blood drive comes around.”

Additional blood drives are scheduled in January and March.