For several years now Leyden has teamed up with LifeSource, Chicagoland’s Blood Center to donate blood in an effort to save lives.

This year’s spring Blood Drive is Thursday, April 17 from 7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., and students are encouraged to sign up and support this important cause.

Students are able to register during their lunch period with student council adviser Bill Mitchell, who will provide you with an appointment card that lists the period you can donate.

He cautions that students should prepare for their blood donation by eating a well-balanced meal prior to donating, getting plenty of sleep the night before, staying hydrated constantly throughout the day, and bringing a form of identification as it’s required in order to sign in.

Donors must have parental consent if not 17 and older. They must also weigh at least 110 lbs and not have had any body piercing within the last year.

All nurses and staff are trained professionals and have proper experience performing these procedures.

This year’s goal, as in previous years, is to raise more awareness for the importance of donating blood, along with increasing Leyden’s numbers from previous blood drives.

As Mr. Mitchell said, come on down to “save a life, get free snacks, and get free pajama pants!”