This year marks the first time in a really long time since NIS hosted the last blood drive, thanks to the initiative of one of our Grade 12 students, Lola Schoenlaub. This event will be in collaboration with the Thai Red Cross Society and will take place this Wednesday, 10 December, in the Harmony Theater from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

A total of 40 people have already signed up to donate their blood this week: 11 students, 6 parents, and 23 staff members. These courageous donors have shown their willingness to step up and save lives. However, very few parents have signed up, which shows how important it is for the rest of our community to come together and support this meaningful student-led initiative.

But you might be wondering: why is NIS organizing this event in the first place?

Well, as many of you know, most medical treatments require tons and tons of blood; however, hospitals often struggle to have enough supplies. According to the World Health Organization, over the past ten years, blood donations have risen to 10.7 million, mostly from unpaid and voluntary donors. Seventy-nine countries collect over 90% of their blood supplies from volunteers, while 54 countries receive 50% of their blood supplies from family and relatives of the patients.

Next Wednesday, we have the chance to be part of that 90% of voluntary and devoted donors. This is an opportunity to make a real difference, right here, right now.

Every donation counts. Every donation saves lives. Let’s all come together and make this blood drive count!