Anatomy Club is holding a blood drive in the big gym to send much needed blood to local hospitals on October 22nd.

There are a few prerequisites for donation, including: You must be 16 years of age or older, a minimum weight of 110 lbs, and a generally healthy physique.

“36,000 units of red blood cells, 7,000 units of platelets, 10,000 units of plasma are needed in the US every day. If we don’t have blood available people will die,” said anatomy teacher and blood drive runner, Jason Prey.

For some it is difficult to see the impact their blood donation would make. According to Prey, however, those receiving the benefits are closer than they may realize.

“A graduate of MRHS from back in the 2000s would have died after complications of giving birth. She lost so much blood she needed 10 units of blood and 8 units of plasma.  Without blood donors she would not have survived, she shared her story with my VICA/Anatomy Students years ago,” Prey stated.

The club hopes to collect at least 120+ units of blood. The blood drive has been very successful for the past twenty years. Nothing has changed to the drive this year and they are hoping to continue success bearing the support of eligible staff and students.

Mr. Prey has proven to be excited for the blood drive and hopes to make a difference in the community.

“Helping people, working with my VICA/Anatomy Club students is very rewarding, also talking with fellow donors is a fun [experience],” said Prey.

Although some students are squeamish around needles and the sight of blood, most students are unaffected by the process and should not be discouraged by any fears.

“Yes, most donors have no reaction, but a few don’t feel well and on rare occasions a donor might feel very light headed and pass out,” said Prey.

To sign up students must get a form from Mr. Prey in C209, and minors must get a parent signature.