How do you convince high school students to become first-time blood donors? Having a needle inserted into their arm is probably not top of mind for many students. But Logan Lau was able to convince his classmates that donating blood could mean a matter of life or death during a medical emergency.
In 2019, Lau helped organize one of the largest high school campus blood drives in the state. He sent out emails, made and posted signs, and used social media to get the word to students, faculty, and staff on Kamehameha Schools Kapalama campus. Students got a free dress day and snacks for their participation. But what really got their attention was seeing Lau walk around campus wearing a blood drop costume.
“It was a way to foster school spirit,” says Lau, who was a sophomore at the time.
Logan Lau helped to organize one of Hawaii's largest campus blood drives.
Students lined up in front of Blood Bank of Hawaii’s mobile donation van. About 140 students donated enough blood to save up to 300 lives. “It was very inspiring and hopeful to see all those students show up,” he says. “Hopefully this will instill in them a lifelong commitment to being a blood donor.”
Many students were hesitant at first. They didn’t know if they were old enough or met the minimum weight requirement. (You must be a minimum age of 16 years and weigh at least 110 pounds. Parental consent is required for students ages 16 and 17).
Students with tattoos also were not sure if they could donate. (You can donate blood if you have a tattoo but there are requirements.)
Lau gave them blood donor facts to help them make an informed decision.
It was also Lau’s first time giving blood. “I’m not going to lie – it’s not pain free. But the satisfaction of knowing you may save a life is worth the time and effort.”
Now a freshman at Stanford University, Lau is interested in entering the medical field. He’s looking forward to donating at his college campus’s blood drive.
For more information about donating blood or organizing a blood drive, visit Blood Bank of Hawaii’s website or call (808) 848-4770.
