ST. LOUIS, Mo. (Sept.16, 2019) — The American Red Cross is once again partnering with Leslie and Alan Nehring to host a blood drive in memory of their son Caleb, Tuesday, Oct. 1 from Noon to 7 p.m. at the Shrewsbury City Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave., in St. Louis.
In September 2005, Caleb was diagnosed with stage IV rhabdomyosarcoma, a form of childhood cancer. After completing one week of first grade, he spent the next 13 months receiving treatment, including surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation treatment and numerous blood transfusions. Caleb showed tremendous courage and strength until he passed away Oct. 1, 2006. This drive has collected over 1,000 units in the previous 12 years, including a high-water mark of 132 in 2018.
“Last year we collected our 1000th pint of blood and set a new personal best of 132 in Caleb’s memory,” said Leslie. “We hope to continue our success this year helping provide blood donations for patients who need it most. We are so grateful for the continued support of friends, family and the entire community who help make a difference for countless others who need it most.”
In the spirit of giving, all can Give Life by donating blood alongside Caleb’s parents, Alan and Leslie, to help those in need. In addition, give joy by donating a new toy to benefit Friends of Kids with Cancer - a non-profit organization with over 25 years of history exclusively in St. Louis of helping kids with cancer…be kids.
Those with types O, A negative and B negative blood are encouraged to make a Power Red donation at this blood drive. Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells during a single donation, allowing them to maximize their impact. During this type of donation, red blood cells are separated from other blood components, and the plasma and platelets are safely and comfortably returned to the donor.
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all need blood.
How to donate blood
Simply download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org and use sponsor code CALEB, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, from a computer or mobile device. To get started and learn more, visit RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site.
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 cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.