By Alan Sorensen
The second time around looks to be twice the fun for students putting on this year's Havre High School blood drive.
The blood drive, held under the auspices of Key Club for the first time last year, was open only to HHS students, faculty and staff. This year, it is being cosponsored by Key Club and HELPers and is open to everyone who's of age and raring to give the "gift of life."
Ali Evans, president of Key Club, said last year's drive attracted more than 30 donors. Opening up the drive to Havre-area residents is expected to help push that number higher.
But in order to give during the Dec. 1 drawing, residents must sign up a week ahead of time. Sign-ups will be held during the noon hour at a table in front of the main office on the north side of the building.
Students and staff who want to give are encouraged to sign up early, too.
Students under 17 are not allowed to give blood, but 17-year-olds may donate if they provide proof of parental permission. Anyone 18 or older needs no permission.
Not all people who appear for a blood drawing are allowed to give for a variety of reasons. They may have had recent surgery, be on temporary medication, have cold or flu symptoms, or show signs of some other condition or fatigue.
All prospective donors must fill out questionnaires about their medical and personal histories. They also must take a brief physical exam that includes blood pressure readings, pulse monitoring, temperature reading, blood iron content check and more questions.
The blood drawing will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1, in the gym's third locker room, Evans said.
