On Tuesday October 13^th, Holyoke High School’s National Honor Society hosted its second annual blood drive. On this day, the opportunity was presented to students and faculty to donate blood to save lives. Red Cross arrived at Holyoke High bright and early Tuesday morning to set up for the event. Over 60 students and faculty were very eager in hopes to exceed the amount of pints of blood donated last year.

Taking place in Holyoke High’s small gym, students and faculty were assigned a time to go donate. When they arrived they checked in with volunteering students and were given an information packet to read prior to donating. Each donor was checked by an official Red Cross member to make sure they met height and weight requirements and were not too low on iron. Though everyone had good intentions, some were turned away due to these restrictions.

After speaking with many of these donors and volunteers, it became obvious that everyone was in this for the greater good. Jack Moskal, a senior at HHS, stated “I donate because it’s for a good cause, and it feels good knowing you’re helping out those in need.”

Later in the event, a worker by the name of Nicole had a more interesting perspective on the blood drive and why she takes part as a volunteer. “I do this because I save lives all day, every day.” She also let The Herald in on the fact that 1 pint saves 3 lives.

Overall, the blood drive was a very positive and successful event for Holyoke High.