Blood drive for firefighter’s daughter
Today in Highland Park
Here’s a heartfelt update from the Chicago Tribune:
The City of Highland Park and the Highland Park Fire Department are coming together once again for a special Memorial Day blood drive. This year, the event is dedicated to supporting Kylia Abbott, the young daughter of firefighter Nathan Abbott, who is currently battling stage four neuroblastoma. The blood drive will take place on Saturday, May 23, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Fire Station #33, located at 1130 Central Ave.
Kylia was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer that develops in nerve tissue—often in the adrenal glands, neck, chest, or spinal cord. Her condition was discovered after a routine checkup in January 2014. Since then, she has undergone intense treatment at the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital, requiring nearly 20 blood transfusions. Her family has been incredibly grateful for the support they’ve received, especially from Nathan’s fellow firefighters, many of whom have made personal sacrifices to be there for Kylia during her treatments.
This marks the second consecutive year that the Highland Park Fire Department has organized a blood drive in honor of Kylia. Nathan, a former U.S. Marine who earned the Purple Heart during Operation Iraqi Freedom, has always been known for his dedication and service. For his colleagues, hosting this event on Memorial Day is a meaningful way to show their support and pay tribute to a fellow first responder and his family.
"We're in the business of saving lives," said Highland Park Fire Chief Dan Pease. "It's only natural that we extend that same spirit of service to one of our own when they need it most."
Kylia’s grandmother shared how crucial blood donations have been in her granddaughter’s journey. "The blood transfusions were essential in keeping Kylia strong enough to receive her stem cell transplant," she explained. "They helped her stay alert and active, which played a big role in her ability to fight the disease."
If you're interested in donating, appointments are encouraged but not required. You can schedule your donation by calling LifeSource at (877) 543-3768 or visiting www.lifesource.org using group code 344D.
Thanks, Dan.
(Word count: 512)Home Decorations,Glass Music Note Statues,Owl Statues To Scare Birds,Desktop Decor For Creative Room Home
Hand-made Chimes | Home Decor | Garden Ornaments , https://www.revinnodesign.com