On Wednesday, Sept. 11, Southwest will have its first blood drive of the 2024-2025 school year from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The sign-in table will be in the theatre hallway and the bus to donate blood will be in the back of the school outside. 

“There’s a few different ways to sign up, you can either go online to our website or there’s different posters around the school where you can sign up,” Student Council President senior Kasch Faustman said. “We will have a sign-in table in the theatre hallway.” 

You have to be at least 16 years old and meet the requirements to donate blood. The individuals getting their blood drawn have to bring the parent approval form with them. You can pick up the form in the main office. 

“Donating blood is incredibly important,” Faustman said. “More often than we realize, people have severe health issues and need blood.”

It takes 30 minutes to go through the process. The US has been in a blood shortage for the past 20 years. There will be snacks and drinks provided for individuals after they get their blood drawn. 

“I think it’s important to donate blood because people don’t realize how much of a shortage there is,” senior Emma Braswell said. “It is better to be uncomfortable for an hour or two while giving blood than letting someone die.” 

There will be a minimum of two blood drives in total this year but potentially more. If you have any questions, reach out to Student Council sponsor Mrs. Hammers. 

“Your body constantly regenerates blood so it doesn’t take anything away from you,” Faustman said. “By donating blood you are helping another person who could desperately need it.”