Heroes drives brought in 151 units

To the editor:
The Indiana-Ohio Region Blood Services of the American Red Cross would like to give recognition and thanks to the Jay County elementary schools that recently held Pint Size Heroes blood drives, a program designed to educate our youth about the importance of blood donation.
Students invite the adults in their lives to give blood at their school drive. In February a total of 151 units were given.
The Jay schools have held annual Pint Size Heroes drives since 2008.
The 2015-16 Heroes drives were dedicated to 7-year-old Joshua Johnson of Dunkirk who was diagnosed in fall 2014 with ALL (A type of Leukemia). Joshua has undergone more than a year of chemotherapy. During his treatments he needed blood products to help strengthen his system.
With the help of generous donors who gave these blood products, Joshua is a happy and active first grade student who attends Westlawn Elementary.
We thank Joshua’s family for sharing their story.
The Jay County High School students are also dedicating their March 15 blood drive to Joshua.
Anyone interested in giving blood can learn more at http://www.redcrossblood.org.
With appreciation,
Jeri Garringer
Account Manager
American Red Cross