Brownwood ISD’s HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) chapter hosted a blood drive on Thursday, March 3rd. Student-led initiatives like this happen rarely, but the Brownwood High School HOSA officers organized the event, advertised it, and plan for more donation opportunities in the future.
“My sophomore year, I did a blood drive in my old school,” said HOSA officer Michelle Fletes. “I got to experience a little bit of the health science field. I learned so much that I wanted to do it again, not only because of the experience, but because we were also helping people and that brings so much joy to me.”
The blood drive allowed students an opportunity to learn a hands-on approach to health science. The officer group recruited donors, advertised the drive, and created a social media campaign in order to promote the drive to the public. “Myself and the other HOSA officers worked the sign-up tables during our lunch periods to help recruit donors for the blood drive,” said HOSA officer Morgan Phipps. Fellow officer Aishwarya Nigalye added, “We used our social media, promoted on our school announcements, and got out of our comfort zone by talking to people face-to-face and encouraging them to think of the good cause they were supporting to help them not be afraid. It was a lot of fun getting people to participate in something we were passionate about.”
The World Health Organization offers plenty of reasons to donate blood. “Blood is the most precious gift anyone can give to another person – the gift of life,” their website states. “A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components – red cells, platelets and plasma – which can be used individually for patients with specific conditions” (https://www.who.int). BISD’s HOSA students used this opportunity to explore the various skills needed to plan and implement a blood drive. Several students even contributed blood for the first time. “It was better than I thought it would be,” said Fletes. “Afterwards I felt fine, a little lightheaded, but that was it.”
Health Science Technology teacher Bonita Dean works with HOSA students to help them pursue their health science education and necessary tangible skills. “BHS HOSA picked up the opportunity this year and ran with it,” Dean said. “We are excited to offer it and plan to continue offering blood drives twice a year. Seniors who have given at least two times will get to wear a red cord at graduation.” The various officers for HOSA saw firsthand the impact that giving blood offers. Not only does it fulfill local health needs, but as officer Magaly Cervantes pointed out, it is a good experience, “to be able to help change a life.”
STORY BY: Sara Musgrove