Community to honor Imperial, Neb. teen during Red Cross blood drive
Midwest
IMPERIAL, Neb. – In December, doctors diagnosed Makenna Wallin, daughter of Marilee and Jeff Wallin, with ac
ute myeloid leukemia, a cancer of her blood and bone marrow.
Fifteen-year-old Makenna’s positive outlook and regular blood and platelet donations have buoyed her through chemotherapy treatments the past few months, said Marilee.
As a show of support, the American Red Cross, Chase County High School and Imperial Bible Church will host blood drives in Makenna’s honor in March.
Blood collected at the blood drives in Makenna’s honor may help many types of patients, including those battling leukemia and other forms of cancer. In fact, some cancer patients require daily blood transfusions as part of their treatment.
How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.
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