McClain FFA hosts school-wide blood drive
On Thursday, Feb. 12, the McClain FFA Chapter partnered with the American Red Cross to hold the second school-wide blood drive at McClain.
The event took place in the high school and was open to any student 16 and older, as well as staff members.
McClain FFA previously held the first-ever blood drive at McClain earlier this school year in October.
The event was organized by committee chair member Aaron Sharp, with help by the officer team and adviser Chris Fitzpatrick.
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“This was a great opportunity to give back to such an amazing community that does so much for us," Fitzpatrick said. "We had a great time putting the event on, and we’re more than happy with the support that came from the student body.”
Students eligible to donate had to be at least 16 with parent consent. Blood screening was used to ensure iron levels were at least 12.5 or higher. Each whole blood donation collected was separated into three parts consisting of platelets, red blood cells and plasma.
Students meeting requirements also had the option to donate double red blood cells. During the process of double red cell donation, an apheresis machine is used and collects red cells but returns most of the plasma and platelets to the donor.
After a successful turnout and positive feedback, the McClain FFA chapter plans to continue this event for future years.