SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Dec. 5, 2018) — The American Red Cross is joining the family of Sydni Brown to host a blood drive in her honor Saturday, Dec. 15 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Abundant Life Church, 700 Spencer Drive, in Neosho.
Sydni, 10, was officially diagnosed with Stage 4 Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (also referred to as ARMS) in May 2018. The treatment plan for ARMS is very intense and includes 54 weeks of chemotherapy, with radiation therapy involved. Sydni and her family make a weekly 300-mile trip, from their home in nearby Seneca, Mo., to St. Louis Children’s Hospital for her treatments. This blood drive is a way for the Brown family to give back to the community and shed light on Sydni’s condition.
“There are children just like Sydni who are in a fight against ARMS and this is a way to generate more awareness,” said Darci Brown, Sydni’s mother. “We hope the community comes out to donate blood in her honor and share that giving spirit this holiday season with others who need it most.”
The winter months can be among the most challenging times of year for the Red Cross to collect enough blood donations. Many donors are busy with holiday activities, and inclement weather can force the cancellation of blood drives. Additionally, some donors become temporarily ineligible because of seasonal illnesses.
Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors are urgently needed to give now to avoid delays in lifesaving medical care for patients. Volunteer blood drive hosts are also critically needed to stop the shortage from continuing throughout winter.
Eligible donors with types O, A negative and B negative blood are urged 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.
Blood 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.
How to donate blood
To makes an appointment for this drive, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code SYDNI, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). 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 consent 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 CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.