Mission, Texas (January 20, 2025)— Mission CISD’s commitment to healthcare education and community support took center stage during a recent blood drive at Mission High School (MHS). Sponsored by the MHS Health Science Club with services provided by Vitalant, the event underscored the critical importance of blood donations while highlighting the impactful work of the school's Phlebotomy program.
The blood drive was a resounding success. With over 59 students signed up, the event collected more than 60 units of blood, potentially saving over 200 lives. For Roberto Galvan, a Phlebotomy Instructor at MHS, the event was deeply personal.
“As someone who worked in medical laboratories and blood banks for over 20 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the urgent need for blood donations,” said Galvan. “Every unit of blood can be separated into plasma, red blood cells, platelets, and other components, each capable of saving lives. Hosting this blood drive is my way of giving back and ensuring our students see the real-life impact of their skills.”
Phlebotomy Program Equips Students for Real-World Careers
Mission High School’s Phlebotomy program prepares students to become Certified Phlebotomy Technicians (CPT), enabling them to start working in hospitals and clinics immediately after graduation. Galvan, a 1991 graduate of Mission High School himself, sees his role as both instructor and mentor.
“Our program not only teaches students the technical skills of drawing blood but also prepares them for the healthcare field with hands-on experiences like this blood drive,” said Galvan. “By sharing my professional experiences, I help students connect their classroom learning to real-world scenarios.”
Galvan’s journey is an inspiration. After graduating from Mission High School, he pursued his medical education and spent over 20 years in Minnesota as a medical laboratory technician. Now back in Mission, he is dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.
The Importance of Blood Donation
The blood drive coincided with Blood Donor Awareness Month, emphasizing the ongoing need for blood donations.
“Blood donations are critical,” Galvan explained. “During emergencies, hospitals rely on blood banks to save lives. I encourage everyone to donate. It doesn’t take much time, but it makes a world of difference.”
A Message to the Mission Community
Galvan’s commitment to his community extends beyond his classroom. Reflecting on his own journey, he encourages young students to explore the opportunities Mission CISD’s Health Science Program offers.
“Back when I was a student, programs like these didn’t exist. Today, we offer career paths in phlebotomy, pharmacy tech, patient care, and more,” he said. “There’s always going to be a need for caretakers. I urge students to take advantage of these programs and consider careers in healthcare.”
Through events like the blood drive and comprehensive programs, Mission CISD equips students with the skills and experiences they need to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. With the support of instructors like Galvan, students are not only prepared for the workforce but are also instilled with the values of service and compassion.
For more information about Mission CISD’s Health Science Program or future blood drives, visit Mission CISD's website.
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