Ashlyn Koons is like many 4 year olds. Purple is her favorite color, and she loves tutus and corn dogs. But, unlike other young girls her age, a year ago, Ashlyn was diagnosed with stage 4 favorable histology Wilms tumor. Her treatment has included blood transfusions.
The Pryor community is invited to donate blood in honor of Ashlyn at an American Red Cross blood drive Sept. 30, from 1-7 p.m. at the Thunderbird Youth Academy, 417 S. Elliott.
“The last year had been difficult but Ashlyn’s a trooper,” said Goldie Koons, Ashlyn’s mother. “We can never say thanks to the people who donated the blood Ashlyn’s already received, but we can help draw attention to the ongoing need for blood for patients like my daughter.”
The blood drive in honor of Ashlyn occurs during September which is National Preparedness Month, and an important reminder that a readily available blood supply is critical for emergencies. All those who come to donate will receive a coupon via email for a free haircut from Sport Clips Haircuts.
To donate blood at the drive in honor of Ashlyn, simply download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767.)
How to donate blood
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.
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