Brookelynn Taylor

Writer

Saving lives one donation at a time, the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) paid a visit to Marlow High School on Tuesday, October 13 for the annual blood drive hosted by the Student Council. 

At each blood drive, the phlebotomists collect one pint from each person and finish by assuring the stability of the donor with a snack. 

Not only do phlebotomists draw one’s blood, they provide every aspect of the donation process of donors from greeting them when they arrive, screening, drawing the blood to thanking them for coming in today.

OBI organizer Annamarie Bomar explained how the pandemic has changed the organization. 

“This year is different as we are dealing with COVID-19,” Bomar explained. “We are seeing less donations because schools and businesses are cancelling their blood drives.” 

Bomar explained how important it is for people to donate. 

“There is no substitute for blood, so developing the habit of donating blood is important,” Bomar said. “Without volunteer blood donors, our hospitals would not have the blood they need for surgeries, as well as cancer and burn patients.” 

Not only does Bomar think donating blood is important for people in need, she also stated how donating helps with students’ character. 

“Students are able to develop leadership, project management, goal-setting and teamwork skills,” Bomar said. “Students build character by helping others, and it’s an opportunity to personally save a life within your community.”

Hoping to encourage more students to donate, MHS participated in a contest with Duncan High School to see who could donate the most blood.

With the winner receiving a trophy and bragging rights for the year, MHS donated 30 pints of blood,  and DHS, coming into the lead, donated 36 pints.

While the competition was purely to raise awareness for the donation day, MHS hopes to continue saving the lives of their community one pint at a time.