Renue Physical Therapy will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross on Friday, September 22nd from 12:00pm – 5:45pm at Freeland SportsZone.
For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS
(1-800-733-2767) or sign up online at redcrossblood.org with sponsor code FREELAND.
The drive will be held in memory of Morris Stoddard, late husband of Renue Physical Therapist Assistant Stacie Stoddard. Morris was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in October 2020 at 31 years of age, and passed away just five months later due to complications in March 2021. Stacie and Morris were high school sweethearts, and share two beautiful daughters aged 11 months and three years at the time of his passing.
During rounds of chemo, Morris received multiple blood donations as a key part of his treatment. But the Covid pandemic generated a major blood shortage and there were times Morris was not able to get the blood he needed. This inspired Stacie to host a blood drive and give back in his memory.
“Morris was the type of person who would help anyone in need,” said Stacie. “He was very kind, always positive, and generous. It’s important to me to give back in his name and help others like he would have. This will also help keep his memory alive for his kids.”
Blood is routinely transfused to patients with cancer and other diseases, premature babies, organ transplant recipients and trauma victims, according to the Red Cross.
“The short amount of time it takes to donate can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical condition. We urge eligible donors to join us in the selfless act of giving blood.”
Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, B negative and A negative. According to the Red Cross, type O negative is the universal blood type that can be safely transfused to anyone, and is often used to treat trauma patients.