The American Red Cross of Chicago & Northern Illinois has a new vehicle designated for Biomedical Services. This Ford Transit was purchased through a fundraiser in memory of John Ahearne, the late husband of Chicago & Northern Illinois Red Cross Regional Philanthropy Officer Betsy Ahearne. John died very unexpectedly several years ago, and now his family is hoping to help others in honor of John. Several memorial blood drives were hosted as well.
“People can be amazing.”
The vehicle is already on the road performing it’s duties delivering blood products to area hospitals such as Northwestern Memorial, Lurie Children’s Hospital, Rush University Medical Center, University of Chicago Medical Center and more.
Thank you to all donors who have made this possible. This vehicle was acquired near what would have been John’s 58th birthday!
“I’m lucky to get to see that generosity comes to fruition every day,” said Betsy. “It comes in many forms such as a financial gift that helps strangers impacted by devastating disasters, a gift of valuable time, e.g., when volunteers fan out across disadvantaged neighborhoods to install free smoke alarms, or a single donation of blood that can save up to three lives. People can be amazing.”
To sign up for an appointment to give blood, find an upcoming drive near you at www.redcrossblood.org.
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Written by Chicago & Northern Illinois Red Cross Communications Manager Holly Baker
American Red Cross of Illinois 