On October 18th students at Norman North got the opportunity to donate blood to someone in need. Through the organization Red Cross, Norman North hosted a blood donation event in the MPR that allowed students to schedule a time or drop in at the teacher’s permission to donate. 

This was the first year Norman North has used the Red Cross to donate blood, as opposed to the Oklahoma Blood Institute. However, they both uphold the same standards and values. 

Students who are 17 or 18 who wanted to donate did not have to have signed parent permission. Those who are 16 did need a signed permission slip, and those who are 15 were not able to donate. There were also weight restrictions per height that were applied to the teens.

Once in the MPR, kids had to sign in and show a valid form of ID. Then, using their computer or phone, they had to complete a form that asked questions revolving around any previous sexual activity, travel, and diseases that they may have been exposed to. After that, they were given a QR code to give to the nurses once they were called for a physical. They then had to read a pamphlet that informed students of the risks inherent in donating blood. They then had to wait to be called for a physical and further questions by one of the nurses working for the Red Cross. 

Following the physical, the students then got their blood tested, and if their iron was too low then they would have to wait. If their blood was good to donate, then they were ushered to lay on one of the gurneys, and from there they would donate a liter of blood. Following, they were moved to tables that had water, juice, and snacks, and it was recommended that the students wait for 15 minutes before they go back to class.