MVHS Blood Drive Supports Local Hospitals

Murrieta Valley High School student Connor McCormack required about nine units of blood after he was .

He wanted to repay the favor, so a blood drive was held Thursday About 110 people—90 of them students—turned out to donate much-needed blood for the San Diego Blood Bank.

“I came to the activities director about using my story to promote this blood drive (and) to get more students from the school involved,” Connor said.

The drive began at 8 a.m. and concluded shortly after 1 p.m. in the school’s gymnasium. Connor was at the blood drive to give his support and to help motivate the donors. 

Liz Sokolich, 48, of Murrieta came to donate her life-saving blood. Sokolich knows firsthand how important donated blood is. 

“I got a message on my phone from the San Diego Blood Bank saying they were running low and it was critical,” Sokolich said. “My dad has needed (blood) in the past and I know how important it is to have a supply on hand.

“I’m thrilled and so proud of all the kids that participated.” 

Geniel Moon, MVHS activities director, was on hand overseeing the operation.

“We do four blood drives a year at Murrieta Valley,” Moon said. “These students are learning the importance of donating blood.”

According to Moon, today’s donated blood will stay in southwest Riverside County for use in local hospitals.

“Every student that donates blood today is saving any where from three to four lives,” Moon said.

The students had to be 17 or older and have a parental permission slip to donate, according to Moon.

“I just want to thank them for coming out and donating,” Connor told Patch.