HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Monthly infusions made from blood products help keep 26-year-old McCartney Johnson alive.
Diagnosed in infancy with hypogammaglobulinemia, an immune disorder characterized by a lack of antibodies that help fight infection, he chooses to live every day to the fullest and remains grateful to those who donate blood. Celebrate life with McCartney and donate at the annual blood drive held in his honor.
The drive is Saturday, Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, 215 E Fifth Ave.
“While we can’t individually thank those who donate the blood that creates the treatment McCartney receives, we can continue to pay it forward to help be sure blood is available when he and others need it,” said Stephanie Haas, Johnson’s mom. “But we can’t do it alone and invite our community to roll up a sleeve.”
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information.
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.