Go-Getters 4-H Host Mary Ann Peters Memorial Blood Drive

June 16, 2009

If perhaps you have given blood at the Ashkum Red Cross Community Blood Drive in the past, you would certainly be familiar with the friendly, smiling face of Mary Ann Peters. Mary worked countless hours to ensure that the local blood drive was an annual, well-run event.

Following graduation from Mercy School of Nursing in Champaign in 1951, Mary Ann worked in the nursing profession for more than 30 years. Many of those years being at our near-by St. Mary's Hospital and the former Central Hospital in Clifton.

Mrs. Peters, in her true nature of compassion, became actively involved with the Red Cross Blood Drive many years ago. For more than 20 years, she had worked the local drive in many facets, including being chairperson some of those years. The loss of Mary Ann Peters is surely felt in the organization of this year's drive. Donating blood can change a life. Mrs. Peters changed the lives of many!

The Mary Ann Peters Memorial Ashkum Community Blood Drive will be held from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 23 at Assumption Catholic Hall, 208 North Second, in Ashkum. The event is being hosted by the Ashkum Go-Getters 4-H Club. To make an appointment to donate blood or to get more information call Sharlene at 1-815-694-3054. Walk-ins are also acccepted.

More information is also available by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org.. All blood types are needed to ensure an adequate supply for those in need. A blood donor card or driver's license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parent/guardian consent form. Forms are available by calling 1-815-694-3054. Donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.