American Red Cross
WICHITA — Once again, Jordan LaFond’s family are choosing to honor his memory by announcing the fourth annual Jordan LaFond Memorial Blood Drive. The drive will be held at the American Red Cross Hays Blood Donation Center from March 24 to April 4.
Jordan lived just 34 days and received numerous transfusions before passing away in November 2011. His parents are grateful to the strangers who donated blood and helped give them those 34 days with their son.
“We learned during Jordan’s life how important it is to have blood available when it’s needed, “ said Jordan’s mother, Brandi LaFond. “Thanks to all those who have supported the drive in Jordan’s memory each year. It’s heartwarming to hear of donors that give year after year.”
Jordan was diagnosed with a birth defect known as congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) when Brandi LaFond was 20 weeks pregnant. CDH is a rare condition in which a baby is born without a diaphragm, causing the rest of the organs to push against the heart and lungs, which can lead to a child’s death.
Jordan LaFond Memorial Blood Drive
• Tuesday, March 24 – Thursday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Friday, March 27 and April 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, April 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Hays Blood Donation Center is located at 208 E. Eighth.
Appointments to donate blood at the Jordan LaFond Memorial Blood Drive can be made by calling (800) RED CROSS or logging online to redcrossblood.org.
March storms forced the cancellation of more than 200 blood drives, resulting in nearly 7,000 uncollected blood donations. This shortfall follows more than 26,400 uncollected blood donations in February due to severe weather across 27 states. Despite the weather, hospital patients still rely on transfusions. The Red Cross urges donors of all blood types to make and keep appointments in the coming days. Blood donors with the most in-demand blood types – O negative, A negative and B negative – are particularly encouraged to give now to help replenish the blood supply.
“Blood products are being delivered to hospitals almost as quickly as they come in,” said Tricia Quinn, CEO of the Central Plains Blood Services Region. “Donors who give now aren’t just restocking our shelves, they are making sure hope continues to be available for patients in need.”