Macon, Ill (Sept. 30, 2019) — Hannah Reichert of Macon helped save lives by hosting an American Red Cross blood drive this summer and earned a $1,000 scholarship as a result of her lifesaving efforts.
As part of the Red Cross Leaders Save Lives program, the Meridian High School student hosted a blood drive at Meridian High School on June 7, 2019, which collected 25 lifesaving blood donations. As a result, Reichert was entered in a drawing to win a scholarship and was chosen as a winner. Reichert was also awarded a gift card.
Reichert is currently a senior attending Meridian High School and anticipates graduating in May 2020 and looks forward to pursuing a higher education after graduation. After learning about the Leaders Save Lives program from her high school advisor, Reichert thought participating would be a great way to give back to the community. When asked about what she gained from her experience, she replied, “I gained responsibility and awareness for people in need of blood products. It’s amazing to be a part of a lifesaving mission:”
Blood donors from high school and college blood drives account for about 20 percent of donations given through the Red Cross during the school year. Many of these blood donors do not give when school is not in session during the summer months and the winter holidays - a time when an overall decline in donations can often occur. The Leaders Save Lives program encourages community-minded high school and college students to host blood drives to help maintain the blood supply during these crucial times of the year.
Students can sign up now to participate in the Leaders Save Lives program this winter break, Dec. 15, 2019, through Jan. 15, 2020.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.