Have you ever wondered if there was some way that you, as an individual, could give back to your community? You probably have, and quickly became deterred by that daunting prospect since there are plenty of ways, to be sure, but where do to start? Why not donate blood? It’s a simple enough action, with easy access and plenty of opportunities. It checks all the necessary boxes and can potentially entice you into giving back in other ways.
Now, when someone is an adult, they probably know that giving blood is something they can do, whether they found that out through their parents, a school-related event, or a personal experience. The teachers of Parkway Central reflect on what pivotal moment spurred them to start donating.
“My first time donating was in high school when my English teacher challenged my class to try something new,” Williamson said. “I don’t know if I would be as dedicated to donating blood as I am today if not for that experience.”
Similarly, Physics teacher Jennifer Meyer has also been donating since high school, but over time it has become an action that holds far more meaning, especially after having kids.
“The importance of it became more personal when I gave birth to my daughter because there were serious complications and I received a blood transfusion to save my life, Ms. Meyer said.
For John Meyer, a history teacher, his motivations for donating stem from an equally personal issue.
“I started giving blood, with any regularity, after my brother was diagnosed with cancer. When I realized that someone else’s blood was the reason my brother’s life was saved, it made me want to give blood to someone else,” Mr. Meyer said. “Now, it’s more of a habit even though at first it was like I was giving to my brother.”
One thing that all teachers interviewed were in agreement about was the importance of starting to donate blood, as well as just general resources, as early in life as possible. The consensus was that giving blood is a fantastic opportunity for high schoolers to learn what it means to be a good member of the community. Not to mention the fact that this action has the potential to create a lifetime of giving because starting early in life builds a natural sense of consistency and habit.
So when the National Honors Society (NHS) held a blood drive at Central High, it was the perfect opportunity to get students out to donate, especially ones that hadn’t had the chance previously, like junior Diya Bhatnagar.
“It’s something that I have always wanted to do, but my parents had never really let me. But, because the school put it on though, I was able to convince them,” Bhatnagar said.
Olivia Magruder, a junior, describes her thoughts as it was happening, providing some insight to the process.
“It was a nice feeling just knowing I was helping, and seeing how much blood I was able to give,” Magruder said.
Despite some apprehension about the process, junior Natalie Bruins is still glad she donated.
“I thought it would help me get over my anxiety of needles, so I am very glad I did it even though it was difficult,” Bruins said. “It was kind of a ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’ feeling.”
Those who donated had absolutely zero regrets about doing so. They all left feeling fulfilled, in a way, because they all believed the benefits, not for themselves but for others, outweighed the temporary negatives. This action, donating blood, feels best described by the economic principle of “low-risk, high return.” In terms of economics, this means that the risk of losing money will not be devastating but the return is still an attractive and sizable amount.
Now apply this to blood donations- there is little risk of “losing” anything since it’s a simple procedure, yet the “return,” the reward is so great because that blood, your blood, can have an impact that is truly larger than life.
Mr. Meyer phrased it the best, as he hopes all students realize the potential power in this relatively simple deed.
“I don’t know if high schoolers fully grasp it but this is a very tangible way that you can save someone’s life,” Mr. Meyer said.
Ms. Meyer can actually speak on this, thanks to her experiences with donating and, more importantly, receiving.
“I donate blood as often as I can because I want to give back. Strangers donated blood to save my life in the past and I want to pass it on,” Ms. Meyer said.
As some final words of advice, the teachers of Parkway Central would like to leave you with some food for thought for the next time a blood drive shows up at school, or just one in your community.
Williamson keeps her message short and sweet, simply stating what this article really boils down to.
“I would say that the potential good outweighs the discomfort in the moment, so don’t be afraid to donate,” Williamson said.
Ms. Meyer ends on the perfect note, highlighting how life throws numerous challenges at everyone but performing small, good deeds, like this one, are able to bring plenty of light to your life if you allow it.
“Giving blood can be scary, but it is a really important thing to do and you can do it! Bring your friends and support each other making a difference in our world,” Ms. Meyer said.
