The GMG National Honor Society and GMG FFA Chapter will be holding the first Fall GMG Blood Drive on Wednesday, Nov. 11, from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the new gym at the high school. Donating blood is a great way to be involved in your community and help others at the same time. For every single pint of blood donated, three lives are saved. For every double red donation, six lives are saved.

If you would like to donate, you need to weigh 120 pounds and be at least 16 years old. If you are under 18, you will need to have a permission slip signed by your parents and turned in to Mrs. Strohbehn or Mrs. Murty before you can donate. If you would like to give a double red donation, you will need to weigh over 150 pounds and be 23 years old (female), or you need to weigh over 130 pounds and be 16 years old (male). A double red donation is when a pint of blood is taken, put through a machine to separate the red blood cells from the plasma and other blood components, and that plasma and other blood components are put back into your body. A second pint of blood is taken and the same process is repeated.

On the day of the blood drive, you will need some type of identification (e.g. driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate). It is also strongly suggested to eat a good meal the night before and good meals for breakfast and lunch. It is equally important to stay hydrated and drink fluids throughout the day. After your donation, you will be directed to the refreshment table and given a drink and snack. You will be asked to stay at the refreshment table for at least ten minutes before you may leave. Then, you will be escorted to your car (or back to class) by a student.

If you have any questions or would like to set up and appointment please contact Mrs. Susie Strohbehn or Mrs. Erin Murty at 641-499-2005 or email them at sstrohbehn@gmgschools.org or emurty@gmgschools.org.

Remember, saving lives begins with you.