Blood drives will honor two firefighters killed near Coeur d’Alene
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Two blood drives will honor the firefighters, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Frank Harwood, who were killed Sunday while responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain outside Coeur d’Alene.
Coeur d’Alene Fire Department engineer David Tysdal was seriously injured in the shooting.
In a news release, Kootenai Health and Vitalant blood centers said the violence underscores the importance of being prepared for medical emergencies and having an adequate blood supply.
“Every drop of blood on a hospital shelf is a lifeline when seconds count,” said Michael Martinez, Regional Director for Vitalant. “These firefighters ran toward danger for their community—and donating blood is one meaningful way we can honor that selflessness. It’s how we help others during the hardest moments and ensure that when emergencies happen, we’re ready.”
While all blood types are needed, there is a particular urgency for type O blood, according to the release.
Type O donors also have the option to make the biggest impact by giving a Power Red donation, in which a concentrated dose of red cells is collected and other components are returned to the donor.
“Power Red” donations allow individuals to donate two units of red blood cells, which are the most frequently used blood component, according to the Red Cross.
More than 60% of the population is eligible to give blood, yet fewer than 10% donate, according to Vitalant.
To make an appointment or check eligibility, visit www.vitalant.org/coeurdalene or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825)
Where to donate:
Noon to 4:45 on Thursday, July 3 in the Ponderosa Tamarack Conference Room at Kootenai Health, 2003 Kootenai Health Way, Coeur d’Alene.
7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on Friday, July 11 in the Ponderosa Tamarack Conference Room at Kootenai Health, 2003 Kootenai Health Way, Coeur d’Alene.
