The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive dedicated to Gerry Albright on Friday, Nov. 12, from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Grace Church of the Nazarene, located at 5360 Clem Road in Portage. 
Gerry Albright, Portage resident, was diagnosed with leukemia on Oct. 6. In one month’s time, he has received over twenty platelet and red blood cell transfusions. “If blood had not been available the first day he went to the doctor, he would have lost his life,” said Sharyl Albright, Gerry’s wife.
Blood must be ready and available on the shelves to help cancer patients, accident and trauma victims, people undergoing surgery, or others needing medical care. Most chemotherapies and radiation can lower blood counts for red cells, white cells and platelets. Some patients, like Gerry, receive red cells and platelets while undergoing these procedures.
The Red Cross relies on consistent blood donations to maintain a stable blood supply. “We are very grateful for people who are regular donors and for the local residents who will come out to this blood drive,” said Sharyl.
How to Donate Blood
To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.
About the American Red Cross
The Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region serves northern and central Indiana and northwestern Ohio, and needs to collect about 500 units of blood a day to meet patient need in more than 60 hospitals. In addition to providing blood to our community, the American Red Cross also provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.