Blood centers across America have been experiencing severe blood shortages over the past decade, posing a concerning risks to patient care that hasn’t let up. The low supply has made it more difficult for doctors to treat trauma patients and perform surgeries. Memorial Hermann and Health Occupations Students of America, HOSA, have teamed up to help save lives across the country with the school’s support and donations.

HOSA is a student organization that provides professional healthcare and skill development for high school students. This prepares future and current healthcare students to gain knowledge and professional experience in the medical field. HOSA is involved in various service projects through volunteering, fundraising and donating, including the blood drive.

“The blood drive was a huge success with 81 people donating from Klein Oak,” the president of HOSA, senior Rommy Bakare said. “I’m so honored and proud to be a part of something so special this year. The donations helped save many lives, and I’m glad that HOSA, along with the clinical classes, could help put this together.” 

This lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation. Providing blood is essential as every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. One person making a donation can save up to three lives. 

“My first experience giving blood was very eye-opening to me,” senior Cooper Cannon said. “It was cool knowing that at the end of the day, I was helping somebody else. I was nervous at first but by the end, it was a very great feeling knowing I saved somebody’s life. I can’t wait for the next time they offer blood donation opportunities because the experience was something I’ll never forget.”