The UPP Future Medical Doctors Association has been organizing blood-donation trips to King Faisal Specialist Hospital since January 17.  Students sign up to give blood, and the Association sponsors organize them and take them to the hospital in groups after classes.  Mr. Steven Ahmann, Chemistry teacher, and Mr. Steven King, English teacher, are the sponsors.

Donating blood requires filling out a questionnaire to check for disqualifying factors, and a quick check of blood pressure, pulse, and blood sugar.  After giving blood, donors are given juice and cookies to maintain adequate blood sugar levels. 

The blood drive gives students a chance to give something back to the community, and teaches them the importance of blood donation.  One doctor at the blood donation center explained to students the enormous amount of blood that can be required for a patient in a single operation.

Bilal Al-Turkmani, one of the student blood donors, found the donation activity very beneficial.  “When I went to donate blood, I felt that I was giving part of my body to help people and Palestinian brothers who were in need.  That was a feeling that can’t be described.  I think donating blood is greater than giving money, simply because the body is the most precious thing you own.  Also, giving blood has a deeper meaning.  Giving blood means collaboration and intimacy between human beings.”