Family to host blood drive to pay it forward Sept. 22

For nearly two years, the Herbert family has been able to live free of the fear of cancer since their daughter Josie went into remission in December 2017.

To give back in a big way, the Herbert family has teamed up with the Blood Bank of Delmarva to host the second Josie's Jammies Blood Drive, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 22, at VFW Post 8276, 200 W. State St., Delmar, Md. Attendees also may donate new pajamas.

Donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be feeling healthy and well. Phlebotomists will check blood pressure, pulse and hemoglobin level, which should be at least 13 for men and 12.5 for women.

“We are excited for this year’s drive,” said Mandy Herbert, Josie’s mother. “We are so thankful to say Josie is doing great and is in third grade! She had a fantastic summer hanging out with her friends and family.”

Josie was diagnosed with Stage IV Wilms Tumor/Nephroblastoma March 23, 2017. She went through 33 weeks of chemotherapy, radiation, and four blood and platelet transfusions. She also underwent four surgeries at Nemours/Alfred I. du Pont Hospital for Children. Josie has defied the odds, and now she and her family are paying it forward so other children battling cancer can receive the blood they need to live.

“We are asking again for new pajamas to give back to the children fighting cancer at Nemours,” Mandy said. “Our goal is 400 pairs of jammies and 50 blood donors. 

The Herbert family holds its blood drive in September in order to help raise awareness of the importance of lifesaving blood donations during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

To schedule an appointment, call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.