On Thursday, Oct. 17, HOSA held its first blood drive of the year in collaboration with Carter BloodCare. On this day, approximately 90 Mavericks signed up to donate a total of 62 pints of blood, saving over 180 lives. 

Vice President of Emerson’s HOSA Chapter, Senior Urshitha Ravapathi, shares the importance of donating blood.

“One pint of blood can save three lives so whether or not you recognize it, donating blood is making a positive impact,” Ravapathi said.

Ravapathi shares her own experience donating blood. 

“I’ve donated a total of two times so far,” Ravapathi said. “The first time was good but the second time I did get dizzy and faint; but overall, I wouldn’t say my experience wasn’t that bad.”

Senior Madison Mintz also shares her experience donating blood at the HOSA blood drive.

“I felt great donating,” Madison said. “All the staff were super nice and compassionate and they take great care of you.”

As an officer, Ravapathi aided in planning and running the effort.

“It’s really fun to run the drive,” Ravapathi said. “All the officers worked together as a team to put this together so it’s been really nice.”

Executive officer, Senior Laya Ganta has watched students come in and out of the Carter BloodCare trucks to give blood.

“I really feel like this is making an impact,” Ganta said. “I haven’t donated myself yet, but I plan to in December at the next blood drive.”

Mintz shares her plans to donate blood again in the future.

“This is my fourth time giving blood and I’ve done it on each drive so I would love to do it again,” Mintz said.