FREEBURG, IL – Join us and donate blood at the 20th annual American Red Cross blood drive honoring former Belleville Police Sergeant Jon Brough and all first responders on Tuesday, July 7, from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. at the Catholic War Veterans Post 370, 3535 S Route 159 in Freeburg. This drive is proudly sponsored by the September 11 Memorial Walkway of Southern Illinois, Catholic War Veterans Post 37, and the Illinois Blue Knights Chapter 14 and has collected countless units of lifesaving blood in the last 20 years.
“This year, our nation celebrates 250 years. When I graduated high school in 1976, our bicentennial, I never doubted I’d be here for the 250th. But on the day, I was injured, I truly believed my life might end,” shared Sgt. Jon Brough. “I am here today because of the extraordinary care of the medical personnel, the kindness of countless people, and the generosity of blood donors who gave me a second chance at life.”
Sgt. Jon Brough was injured in the line of duty on Nov. 10, 2006. Within the first five days, he received 25 units of blood. He has had a total of 32 surgeries, of which most required blood and blood product transfusions. This life-altering experience has made him passionate about blood donations and hosting this blood drive, not just in his honor but to honor all first responders who have been injured or lost their lives in the line of duty.
As a thank you, those who come to give will score a classic American Red Cross x Looney Tunes T-shirt, while supplies last.
How to donate blood
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 and use sponsor code jonbrough 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.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.