Written by: Aniya
Edited by: Leyla
This Saturday, March 22, 2025, the Service Learning Council (SLC) is hosting ISM’s third annual Blood Drive in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross. This event will take place in the Lofthouse from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, running in 30-minute time slots available for the donors. Students aged 16 and above can participate if accompanied by a parent and are highly encouraged to.
Blood donations are essential in saving lives, yet over the last few years, donors have significantly declined due to the pandemic, healthcare workers retiring, and public reluctance. However, donating blood remains a crucial act of service, benefiting a wide range of patients, including women suffering from pregnancy-related bleeding, children with malaria and malnutrition, and individuals with blood and bone marrow disorders.
Manushri, co-president of SLC, emphasizes the initiative’s importance, stating, “Within just 30 minutes, you can save the lives of three individuals by donating the most valuable resource of all: blood.” The Philippine Red Cross will distribute the blood donated to those in urgent need, making a real impact on the community.
Beyond saving lives, blood donation offers health benefits to donors. It can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer, slow down the aging process, and stimulate blood production. Donors also receive a free checkup, including Hemoglobin testing and blood typing.
Last year’s Blood Drive saw 60 participants, and SLC hopes to increase that number to 100 this year. “The more, the merrier!” says Manushri. “Even if you don’t sign up in advance, walk-ins are allowed.” Encouraging students, faculty, and parents to participate, Manushri highlights the life-saving potential of donating blood. “Imagine you have a life-threatening condition with a rare blood type, and there is no available supply in the blood bank. Now, imagine someone choosing to donate – saving your life. By donating blood, you have the power to be that lifesaver.”
To learn more, visit the daily announcements for the informational slideshow or sign up through the official form. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference — one donation at a time.
