Donating Blood

 “People who donate blood are legends,” says Kerry Lee, Clarence High’s school chaplain. And indeed they are. For some people, blood donors are their lifeline. And as long as they are healthy, blood donors can be young, old, male and female. Anyone may be eligible to donate blood, as long as they are 16 or older.

For the last four years, Kerry Lee has been organizing for groups of students to travel to the Red Cross Blood Bank to become blood donors. The organization provides free transport for Clarence High students to and from the venue. On arrival, the students are welcomed and treated like royalty and their blood is treated like gold.

After arrival and before actually giving blood, donors undergo a series of tests and interviews to ensure that they are eligible to give blood. Donors give less than half a litre of blood and from this amount three lives can be saved. After the process, donors are given refreshments to help their bodies recover as quickly as possible. It only takes 1-2 days for the normal blood volume to be completely restored.

Do you like the idea of donating blood?

Yeah, I’d do it. – Carmelina

Yes, I would give blood. – Geoffrey

I don’t like the idea, not really. – Tyson

Yes, I would [give blood], except I don’t like the idea of needles. – Alice

I don’t mind the idea. – Mrs. Maher

Giving Blood: Seb’s Story
We took a maxi taxi to the Red Cross, where we had to fill out some forms. We got weighed and had blood tests and samples to make sure we were okay. We then waited in a chair where a friendly nurse came up and stuck a needle in my arm. It took fifteen to twenty minutes. After giving blood we had a chat and got some milkshakes. It felt good – I felt lighter!

Keziah and Emily