WESTPORT — Superintendent Gary Reese is pleased to share that Westport Community Schools is holding its 2020 American Red Cross Blood Drive, in support of 16-year-old Thomas Harrington, next week.
WHEN:
Saturday, March 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE:
Alice A. Macomber School Gym, 154 Gifford Road
WHAT:
Donors are encouraged to give blood in support of Thomas Harrington, the 16-year-old son of Macomber School Adjustment Counselor Elisabeth Harrington, who has battled bone cancer since he was a child.
When Thomas was 10-years-old, he was diagnosed with stage 4 bone cancer. Thomas went through intensive treatment, including surgery, seven types of chemotherapy and radiation to four different areas of his body before he was declared to be in remission. Just before turning 16, the cancer returned to Thomas’s right kidney. His kidney was removed and he received another six months of chemotherapy and is now in remission once again.
Throughout his treatment, Thomas required several transfusions of blood and platelets due to the effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Blood and blood products are required every day by the tens of thousands of children and adults who have rare blood disorders, are fighting cancer or are suffering from traumatic injuries.
“Giving blood is a simple act of service and has the ability to save thousands of lives each year,” Superintendent Reese said. “We’re proud to host this drive to support Thomas and we encourage community members who are able and willing to donate to join us next Saturday.”
Donors can save time on the day of the drive by using the Red Cross Rapid Pass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questions. To see the eligibility requirements to donate blood, visit redcrossblood.org.
To schedule an appointment to donate blood, visit redcrossblood.org and enter “WPS” in the Find a Drive search box. Appointments can also be made by contacting Diane Charette at the Macomber School at 508-678-8671.
Donors are reminded to bring a photo ID, be well hydrated and eat before donating blood.
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