A Service of The Arrow           Monday March 27, 2000 8:56 PM

By: James Clark

ARROW STAFF

Food, games and blood loss — no, not Crazy Games — last Tuesday and Wednesday FHS hosted its annual blood drive.

"I think this is one of the best volunteer acts that FHS does," said school nurse, Margie Cook. "I appreciate that students are willing to donate it."

Blood donation is a much-needed gift. Donating one pint of blood may help up to four people. Every year millions of Americans will need a blood transfusion, and only five percent of the population can donate.

"It’s a great way to lose weight," said senior Dave Hawkins, "and you help others at the same time."

Some students at FHS have made the blood drive a game, but not without getting a little lightheaded.

"The needles make me weak in the knees and nauseous," said senior Jeff Eayrs, "but I’m going to do it anyways to have a contest with Adee Reed to see who can pump out the blood the fastest."

There are many misconceptions that revolve around donating blood. One of these is the belief that donating blood is unsafe.

"We (American Red Cross) use every precaution," said Tambra Peterson an employee of the American Red Cross. "The blood drive is completely safe for everyone."

Many people also fear giving blood because of the pain involved, but according to students, after the needle prick it is relatively painless.

"It stung for a second, then it was gone," said junior Ture Carlson. "I didn’t look at it though."

After students donated to the blood drive they were supplied food and drink. It is necessary to eat both before and after giving blood to rebuild strength.

FHS has been donating blood for many years. Our school donates 100 to 120 of pints of blood to the American Red Cross.

"The blood bank relies on FHS, and it is a great way to give back to the community," said senior Jerry Clark. "It’s something we’ve done for as long as I can remember."

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