WOODBURY — Nonnewaug is known for having students involved in real world and global issues. This year, Nonnewaug will host three blood drives where students have an opportunity to save lives. 

The first blood drive was held Sept. 17 and run by Melissa Hodges, the National Honor Society advisor. The Red Cross has had a decrease in blood donations, so Nonnewaug students and teachers were given the ability to help the people in need.

“My grandpa got a blood transfusion due to a knee surgery,” said NHS junior Bella Sylvester. “He needed the blood donations so he was able to recover from his knee surgery. I can’t donate but am thankful for the people that do.” 

Blood transfusions are used for many different medical conditions, and lots of people need them and are benefited by donations around the world. Locally, another NHS student’s family was benefited by generous blood donations.

“My aunt actually needed blood because she had a liver disorder,” said NHS junior Josh Rubbo, “so she needed a transfusion. I think it’s very important for people to donate so other people like my aunt can get the blood that they need.”

Hodges runs and organizes the blood drives at Nonnewaug. She and members of the National Honor Society have been supporting this cause for 15 years. 

“One student, John Sales, had childhood leukemia that came back, and [he] unfortunately passed away,” said Hodges. “I also had cancer, and when I was in the hospital, I kept hearing doctors talking about the need for blood donations, and this is why it’s so important to donate.”

For Hodges, these blood drives are personal, and each donation makes a significant difference in the lives of more than just one person. 

“Each blood sample gets split into three; every donation saves three lives, so you can do so much good,” said Hodges.