Local law enforcement agencies partnered with Lifeshare Blood Centers this week to collect a holiday gift that keeps on giving.
Bossier City and Shreveport Police Departments and the Caddo, Bossier and Webster Parish Sheriffs Offices all held blood drives in honor of Minden residents, Jean and Harmon Drew. Lt. Bill Davis with the Bossier Sheriff’s Office said the Drews have made a “tremendous impact” in the community by teaching law enforcement officers for three decades.
In 2008, Jean Drew unexpectedly became ill requiring emergency abdominal surgery that saved her life. As a result of her illness and the surgery, Jean began suffering from severe and debilitating anemia.
Multiple blood transfusions kept Jean alive until she could undergo another surgical procedure to correct the abdominal issues. Because of the transfusions and expert medical care, Jean is able to continue enjoying life.
“When I needed it, it was absolutely vital and just a blessing to me,” says Jean Drew of her experience receiving donated blood,” Jean said.
Jean’s need for blood has lead law enforcement agencies in Bossier, Caddo and Webster to host a series of blood drives this week.
The final blood drive will be held Wednesday, Dec. 4, by the City of Bossier City and the Bossier Police Department. It will take place on the second floor of the Bossier Civic Center, 620 Benton Road, from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
There are many reasons to give the gift of life. Busy holiday schedules, along with inclement weather and cold and flu season often cause a shortage of blood donations. Every donation made could save a life, just like it did for Jean Drew.
LifeShare Blood Centers in Shreveport regularly supplies blood components to 117 medical facilities throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. Those who donate blood now through Dec. 25 will receive a holiday t-shirt for their life-saving donation.
Call (318) 222-7770 or go to www.lifeshare.org for hours and mobile blood drive locations this holiday season.
