Methacton’s Red Cross Club, partnered with the American Red Cross, held its fall blood drive on Nov. 2, collecting 59 units from the high school students. High school nurse Kathleen Thompson managed the event as well as the community blood drive that ran from 3-7 p.m. That drive yielded another 35 units.
One unit can save up to three lives and can be given to any patient in need of blood who has a compatible blood type. Five boys donated red blood cells, which is known as Power Red by the American Red Cross. Ninety-four students signed-up, but many of them were turned away for a number of reasons including the following: low hemoglobin levels, iron deficiencies, and weak veins. Donors also had to meet certain age, height, and weight requirements. Snacks, T-shirts, and blankets were available to the donors after they gave.
Students interested in joining the Red Cross Club can contact Nurse Thompson at her office or via her school email: [email protected]. The next drive for this school year will be on March 6, 2024.
