RICHMOND, Va. (January 25, 2017) — A blood drive will be held in honor of Kennedy Estes on February 5, 2017. Kennedy, 13, is bravely battling lupus and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) with a smile. ITP is an auto immune disease. Her teenage immune system is constantly attacking her platelets, Kennedy receives treatments every two to three weeks at VCU Massey.
Since May of 2015 brave little Kennedy has endured countless hospital stays and bi-weekly hematology/oncology visits. Currently there is no cure for lupus, but her family remains hopeful. They’re inspired by those who passionately give the gift of life to help their little girl. They hope by hosting this blood drive in Kennedy’s honor others will be inspired to donate.
“No one thinks this could be you. Everyone, medically able can save a life. Everyone has an opportunity to be a hero.” said Kenney’s mother, Kimberly Estes.
Kennedy’s family is encouraging the community to rally behind their little girl and make a blood donation in her honor. To make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit
redcrossblood.org.
Donate Blood in Honor of Kennedy Estes
February 5, 2017
11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Cameron Avenue Church of Christ
601 Cameron Avenue,
Colonial Heights, VA 23834
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit
redcrossblood.org 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 (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.
Blood donors can now 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, prior to arriving at the blood drive. 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.
