Notre Dame’s National Honor Society hosted its first Miller Keystone Blood Drive of the year Oct, 7. As a member myself of the National Honor Society, it is always such a pleasure to be able to provide lifesaving donations in times of need. Last year, our blood drive was very successful as we were able to donate 65 units of blood which led us to host two this year. The blood drive is my personal favorite activity for not only the National Honor Society, but for Notre Dame, as it is one of our most meaningful days.

Tracy Trapp, an account manager at the Miller Keystone Blood Center and information specialist for our own blood drive, explained that Miller Keystone is always fortunate for the many high school drives they host every year. Every year has a different theme, which this year happens to be, “Be a Hero! Donate Blood.” When you donate blood, she explained, you are truly a hero because you are saving many lives. One pint of blood can save three lives, she said, so an influx of donations really helps a lot of people.

To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 16 years old, with parental consent, or 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in a state of good health. The requirements and process are easy, making it simple to save lives. All you have to do is take 50 minutes out of your day to receive a screening, donate and recover. If I haven’t convinced you enough to donate, little to no preparation is required. It is recommended to eat foods high in iron before your visit, hydrate, have a good breakfast and relax.

Now until Dec. 16, the Miller Keystone Blood Center is partnering with the Diocese of Allentown to provide Medallions of Saint Januarius, blessed by Bishop Schlert, to anyone who donates. Tracy said Bishop Schlert blessed the medallions during a beautiful ceremony Sept. 18, at the Hamilton St. Donor Center.

Tracy said she began working for the Miller Keystone Blood Center four years ago in January 2020. She used to work for the March of Dimes, a nonprofit organization which improves the overall health of infants. When a member of the Miller Board of Directors visited, she told Tracy how much she loved working there, which started Trapp to begin thinking about working there as well.

“The rest is history,” Tracy said.

Asked to describe the impact of donating blood in one word, Tracy said, “Essential. Blood cannot be manufactured. Blood is needed every single day.”

I think this truly sums up the importance of blood donors, due to the constant need for them. There is always something exciting happening for the Miller Blood Center, including promotions for donors, tours of the blood bank, and the Frequent Lifesavers Club, which turns points from donating blood into merchandise and prizes.

The ability to donate blood is truly a blessing, allowing you to be able to make an impact. Tracy encourages everyone wanting to donate.

“By all means, do it,” she said. “It’s the easiest way to save a life. It hardly takes an hour. And you get free cookies.”

So you heard her first, sign up to donate and save a life.