Local teenagers had a chance to help save lives without leaving school Wednesday when a blood drive was held at Thomas County Central High School. OneBlood, the region’s blood center, brought bloodmobiles to the school for a day of voluntary donations. “Most students don’t have an opportunity to go and give blood,” said Gillian Daughtry, 17. “The blood drive allows students to save lives without having to travel.”

OneBlood Media and Public Relations Manager Betty Roberts said the goal of Wednesday’s drive was “to collect about 80 units of blood.” “One unit of blood may save up to three lives,” Roberts said. “If we collect about 80 units of blood, then that would mean that 240 patients could be helped.” Blood drives are generally scheduled every eight weeks. Students 17 and older may donate, and students age 16 may do so with signed parental/guardian consent. “I enjoy donating because of my blood type,” said Daughtry. “I’m O negative, which is a universal donor, so I know I can save multiple lives.” Shay McIntire, 16, donated blood for the first time Wednesday. “I just wanted to donate,” she said. “It’s good, and I think I would do it again.” Donor Nikul Patel, 17, said he likes “saving lives and helping out the community.” Student Blake West donated two units of red blood cells. “I want to save lives, to help out, to do some good because I care,” he said. West encouraged his fellow students to donate blood during future drives. “Just do it because it helps out,” he said. “And, you never know. You might end up needing a blood transfusion.”

OneBlood officials confirmed Thursday that the end total for the drive was 67 units, which can save up to 201 lives. The next TCCHS drive is scheduled for Nov. 5.

Student Blake West (l) and Shay McIntire (r) donate blood during the first TCCHS blood drive of the school year.