She lays on a cot. She is asked a few questions then told to extend her arm. She squeezes a ball and the needle is put in place. Eight minutes and 34 seconds later the blood is drawn, needle removed, and bandage applied. Senior Michaela Bukaty lowers her arm and attempts to stand up.

“I feel good about myself when I donate. It’s easy to do and can help save a life,” Bukaty said.

On Feb. 15, beginning at 8:30 am, nearly 50 students and visitors saved a life by donating blood. It is estimated by the Community Blood Center that someone needs blood every two seconds and the United States uses 38,000 pints of blood each year.

The annual blood drive held in the gym was sponsored by the National Honor Society. Blood drive committee co-head Grace Keane said the number of donors has decreased since it no longer counts as service hours. Additionally, there are certain requirements a donor must meet.

“The donor must be at least sixteen years old, at least 115 pounds, 12.5 iron, and overall healthy blood,” NHS sponsor Kristin Hilgenfeld said.

To ensure the safety of the blood, the donor’s health history is checked, in addition to receiving mini-physicals.

“For girls donating, good nutrition the week before, lots of water, and a good breakfast the morning of are all important,” senior Meghan Gordon, blood drive committee co-head, said.

There are six stations in the blood donation process; registration, mini physical, hydration station, donation, and revitalization station. After donation, it is important to not do much physical activity.

According to communitybloodcenter.com, the donated blood goes to nearly 70 hospitals in over 70 counties in Missouri and Kansas.

“I am really glad I donated,” Bukaty said. “All the people working the blood drive seemed really appreciative, and I definitely recommend donating if the chance arises.”