Red Cross blood drive in memory of Remington Halker

Gretna Middle School student Remington Halker was a kind, happy, driven child. He was involved in band, show choir and the High Ability Learner program. He also loved gymnastics and competing at meets. In November 2016, Remington was diagnosed with an adrenal gland tumor.

 

Following complications during treatment, Remington needed 69 units of blood during emergency surgery. Sadly, he died on Jan. 6. The Gretna community is invited to help Remington’s family and friends keep his memory alive by donating blood at an upcoming drive held in his name. 

 

“Our hope for this blood drive is to keep Remington’s name alive and also to make sure there is a blood supply for anyone, especially kids, who needs it,” said Lisa Halker, Remington’s mother. “No parent should have to lose a child.”

 

Saturday, March 25

8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Thomas Elementary School

11221 Northridge Drive

 

The Red Cross depends on blood donor heroes across the nation to collect enough blood to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are needed to help those who rely on blood products.

 

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 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 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.

 

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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