By Ryan Manfre ‘25
On Tuesday, Oct. 1, a blood drive was held at Brother Rice. Students and teachers donated blood to those in need. The blood drive was held in the North Gym of the school.
The students and teachers had a checkup before they gave blood. Vitals and blood pressure were checked. Then, the patient’s finger was pricked for blood type. The patients had to do forearm exercises so that the phlebotomist, who collects blood, could find a vein. The phlebotomist rubbed a clean wipe over the spot where the vein was found and then put the needle in for 10 minutes. A small bag connected to a tube, which was attached to the needle, collected the blood. Every two-to-three seconds the patients had to squeeze a mini ball that was placed in their hand. Once the blood was drawn, the patients were given a bag of chips, a T-shirt, and a water.
Senior Aidan Nohava said, “It feels nice knowing that I saved three lives in just 15 minutes. I’m glad I helped and will for sure be signing up for the next one in January.”
“It was great to see the Brother Rice community come together to support a great cause,” said senior Patrick Flannery. “Participating in this blood drive saved more lives than we even know.”
Senior Tadgh Callahan said, “I felt nervous, but I know it was for a good cause. I’m glad I helped those in need. I hope my blood is put to good use and I hope I have saved a couple of lives.”
