FOUNTAIN, MN, January 28, 2021 — Isaac Rain of Fountain helped save lives by hosting an American Red Cross blood drive this past fall and earned a $1,000 scholarship as a result of his lifesaving efforts.
As part of the Red Cross Leaders Save Lives program, the Chatfield High School alum and FFA officer, helped to host a blood drive at United Methodist Church, Chatfield, Minn., on September 15, 2020, which collected 29 blood donations. As a result, Rain was entered in a drawing to win a scholarship and was chosen as a winner. Rain was also awarded a gift card.
Rain plans to graduate from Rochester Community and Technical College in May 2022 with an associate degree in nursing and to go on and pursue a bachleor’s degree – hoping to one day becoming a flight nurse.
“I have witnessed what having blood products at the ready can truly do to help save someone’s life,” said Rain. “Hosting a blood drive is one of the most rewarding experiences I have had the opportunity to participate in. You are impacting the lives of many people, who without you, they may not live another day. When you host a blood drive you are saving lives, and what can be more rewarding than that!”
Blood donation also has a personal meaning for Rain. “Sadly, I never got to meet my grandpa, but years ago he was involved in a traumatic accident and was air lifted to the hospital where he received lifesaving blood. I would like to strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to donate to do so. Having blood on the shelves for patients in need can be the difference between life and dealth.”
Blood donors from high school and college blood drives account for about 20% of donations given through the Red Cross during the school year. The Leaders Save Lives program encourages community-minded high school and college students to host blood drives to help maintain the blood supply for patients in need of lifesaving transfusions. As the pandemic wears on in 2021, blood donations remain essential to the health of our communities.
Students can sign up now to participate in the Leaders Save Lives spring program for drives now through May 31, 2021. For more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org/LeadersSaveLives.
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