To the editor:

We want to thank everyone who participated in the American Red Cross blood drive “Battle of the Badges” Monday July 14th and 15th. Altogether there were 95 donors who came in to share their life-giving blood. We  made our goal and those that gave can feel proud we did our civic duty and helped to ensure lifesaving blood is available for patients in hospitals throughout our area. We thank all of you for your time and effort and for your donations of blood. We hope you will continue to donate at future blood drives as well.

A special thank you to the EMS personnel, firefighters and law enforcement officers who gave time to the community. They give a sense of security to residents, and they often give blood too. As local heroes to many, their courage in the face of adversity bolsters people in need. 

I hope you will all look forward to saving more lives at our next drive Monday, Sept. 15th. If you would like to help, please call 1-800-Give-Life. The American Red Cross would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to you and your community for continuously supporting the Red Cross blood program. Your support is a wonderful example of how to give back to your community and help patients in need.

People commonly underestimate the need for blood and the difference that even one donation can make to ensure blood is available when and where it’s needed.

As a blood donor or volunteer, each of you has helped the Red Cross fulfill their mission of a safe and ample blood supply. Hospital patients rely on us and we delivered! I want to thank each of you for being a part of this lifesaving experience. Especially St. Rose Parish for use of their facilities and the wonderful volunteers at Volunteers In Action; we couldn’t do this drive without you! We served ham sandwiches (provided by First Christian Church) and breakfast burritos Tuesday morning (volunteers made them), which were great. And a special thank you also to the Dairy Queen for the great ice cream. 

We look forward to saving more lives at our next drive Monday Sept. 15. Please keep in mind our blood donations are now collected at St. Rose Parish. If you would like to help in any way please call 1-800-Give-Life.

Corry Herrman, Blood Drive Chair

Great Bend