Early Wednesday, November 15, nurses and other administrators could be seen wheeling stretchers and coolers into the lower gym in preparation for the first blood drive hosted by Cranford High School since before the COVID-19 pandemic. By the time the first donator arrived at 8 am, the gym was converted into a well-oiled blood-collecting machine, with stations for signing in, receiving physicals, donating blood, and recovering after the process. Organized by the Social Studies Honor Society and advisor Mr. Vito, countless senior volunteers helped to make the day a success by participating in various tasks, including signing donors in, walking students back to class, and, the fan favorite, promoting the event by wearing the blood drop costume. Throughout this day-long event, over 80 pints of blood were donated by students and teachers alike, along with other valuable platelet and plasma donations. “It was a very rewarding experience to be there with my class,” said senior member of the SSHS and blood drive volunteer Isabelle C., “[it was] very nice to see all the different people that came out to donate for us.” According to SSHS co-president Nyla F., “it was refreshing to see so many students donate blood for the first time and be excited to participate in something larger at the school.” The blood drive was previously run by a since-retired CHS gym teacher, and hasn’t occurred since the pandemic. Enticed by missing class, getting free cookies and gatorade, and receiving a blood donor cord at graduation, students far surpassed the initial goal of 100 sign-ups. The Social Studies Honor Society is thrilled that so many students and faculty at CHS were willing to give the gift of life by participating in this year’s blood drive!