Students participated in the biannual Inova-sponsored blood drive in the small gym Nov. 15. The event was managed by leadership members senior Carly Choppin, junior Pablo Rothschild and sophomore Danielle Hazan.

“This is really helping people because blood only has a shelf life of about 40 days,” Choppin said. “It does save lives, so you’ll feel good if you donate blood.”

Participants first got their finger pricked to check their iron levels to see if they qualify to donate and then generally gave a pint of blood, Rothschild said. They also received a free t-shirt and snacks while they waited to be cleared.

“A lot of people may be afraid of needles or the idea of giving blood, but it’s worth it to overcome your fears and help others,” leadership sponsor Laurie Safran said.

The next blood drive will be second semester.