Community members came together on June 9 at the Britton Event Center for the Paisley Bray Scholarship Blood Drive, helping ensure local patients have access to the blood products they need when medical emergencies arise.
The blood drive welcomed 32 registered donors and resulted in the collection of 29 units of blood, enough to impact up to 87 lives.
A highlight of the drive was the recruitment of 10 first-time donors, an outstanding accomplishment for a first-time student blood drive organizer. First-time donors included Sandra Anderson, Maryann Baker, Miranda Beck, William Bray, Jennifer Fosness, Georgina Freeman, Drew Freeman, Adalynn Lloyd, Adeline Piehl, and Alexandria Wika.
Several donors also achieved important donation milestones during the drive. Recognized donors included Kelly Mills, Mary Carlson, and Ryan Hastings, who each reached the 1-gallon donation level; Toni Mattson, who achieved the 2-gallon donation level; and Stephanie Baker, who achieved the 9-gallon donation level.
The drive was organized by local student Paisley Bray as part of LifeServe Blood Center’s Student Scholarship Blood Drive Program.
“For a first-time blood drive coordinator, Paisley’s results were exceptional,” said Abbie Arneson, Territory Representative for LifeServe Blood Center. “Collecting 29 units of blood is a tremendous accomplishment, but what really stands out is the recruitment of 10 first-time donors. In a community the size of Britton, bringing ten new people into the donor family is incredible and will have a lasting impact on patients for years to come.”
LifeServe officials emphasize that engaging young people in blood donation and community service is critical to maintaining a strong blood supply for future generations.
“Students like Paisley are helping shape the future of blood donation,” said Arneson. “Less than three percent of the population donates blood, so when young leaders step forward and encourage their friends, families, and neighbors to donate, it makes a real difference.” As a result of her efforts, Bray earned a $250 LifeServe scholarship to help further her education.
“We could not be more grateful for Paisley’s leadership and willingness to take on this challenge,” Arneson said. “Hosting a blood drive takes organization, commitment, and courage. She should be very proud of what she accomplished during her first drive.”
LifeServe encourages other students who are interested in making a difference while earning scholarship funds to learn more about the Student Scholarship Blood Drive Program.
The next community blood drive in Britton is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Britton Event Center. Community members can schedule an appointment by contacting Jesse Bolzer at 605-252-0971. Walk-in donors are also welcome as space allows.
