by Makaela Koziol, Health Assistant Junior (Neshannock)

To LCCTC students and staff, the blood drive means a lot more than getting out of class. Being able to donate, to give to the community — it’s just a small part of all the good at LCCTC, but it’s an important part of what we’re all about! We understand that no matter the benefit, big or small, we love to be a part of it.

“I was so excited and happy that I could give today,” states Michael Monico, EO junior from New Castle. Monico understands the importance of joining in on a large movement like an all-school blood drive.

Our Health Assistant instructor, Mr. Vince Pavia has worked with Vitalant Blood Bank for several years. “You never know who the blood is going to impact or why they may need it.” He recalls, “I recently had a friend who required a blood transfusion, so whenever I donate, I like to think to myself, ‘What if my blood is helping someone I know’.”

“I’m happy to give blood to people who need it,” states Mr. Matt Barker, Math instructor at LCCTC. “There have been so many blessings I have received in my life; it’s good to give to others.”

As a junior studying to be a future nurse, I simply enjoy helping in whatever way is needed. I try my best to donate blood every few months because who knows? Perhaps some day, someone I love will need a transfusion, and my donation will be ready for them. It never ceases to amaze me that so many here at LCCTC feel the same — to see so many here at LCCTC step up to help strangers.

It takes a lot of hands to operate an event like this, but our students in Health Assistant are up to the job, and the real-world experience in professionalism is an important part of preparing our students for a future in healthcare.

LCCTC is HERE and READY to help. We RESPECT those who need that help. And we strive to keep others SAFE from harm with your donation of blood, a gift of life. An hour out of the day to donate, once every three months or so may seem like it is just a little thing, but those little things added together DO matter to those who need it!