(November 1, 2005) -- “I’m so glad it’s finally over,” sighed senior Ania Mordkhani, ASB Director of Activities, about Clark’s third annual blood drive.“I’ve been going crazy for about a week.”

For over a month, Mordkhani has been planning the blood drive in conjunction with Armando Hernandez, Donor Recruiter Representative at USC. Hernandez visits numerous high schools around the country each year to collect blood. “We only visit high schools, because older people in the community are more reluctant to provide blood,” he said. “Most kids want to see what donating blood is all about.”

The blood donated by the students and staff is broken down into three components: plasma, platelets and red cells. Because different people need different parts of the blood, one blood donor can help up to three patients.

“I have blood type O, so it’s even better because anybody can use my blood,” said senior Joy Kim.

A few students fainted during the process, and some of the members of the staff were unable to donate blood. “A lot of people were nervous and didn’t eat breakfast, so they didn’t feel well afterwards. I just felt a little sleepy,” said senior Desi Bogdanova.

However, most of the donors thought of it as a new experience for a good cause.

“I was actually surprised. I thought it would be painful; they’re kind of sucking the life out of you,” said senior Hamlik Abrhimian. Abrhimian said he believes it is the least he can do for those less fortunate than him.

Government teacher Nick Doom, who has been donating ever since he was in high school in Key Club, agrees with Abrhimian. “I’m proud to do my civic duty and donate blood, and I wish more people would,” he said.

According to Hernandez, Friday’s blood drive was “absolutely a success,” even though only about 60 of the original 90 that had signed up to give blood were actually able to, which is the same amount as last year.