Sussex Academy blood drive collects 30 units

Sussex Academy’s Feb. 6 blood drive collected 30 units for the Blood Bank of Delmarva.

Organizing and promoting the donation drive were Sussex Academy Scrub Club co-leaders Caitlin Redick and Kaylie Pederson, who also assisted the Blood Bank of Delmarva team during the event. All available donor spots were booked.

Both students are juniors and said they have donated twice before.

“It’s really fun; I like it,” Caitlin said. “I really feel like I’m accomplishing something.”

“The blood bank also sends you a letter when your blood is used, so you know you’re helping someone,” Kaylie said.

According to the Blood Bank of Delmarva, high school mobile drives account for about 25% of its blood supply and generate the most first-time donors. One pint of blood can save up to three lives.

Sussex Academy nurse Dawnyel Furlong said every unit donated helps support the Blood Bank of Delmarva’s scholarship program for a Sussex Academy student. The 2024 winner was graduate Ellie Davis.

This year, Ellie’s sister Jenna Davis donated for the first time.

“I was a little nervous, but my mom and sister donate,” Jenna said. “I did it because there was an open spot and I wanted to help.”

All donors received T-shirts, refreshments and bagels donated by Surf Bagel.