IVRS Wellness Center to host drives for blood, bone marrow donors Saturday

Organizers say an upcoming event is “not just a drive; it’s an opportunity to become the lifeline for those in need.”

The IVRS Wellness Center, located at 4514 Cornell, Suite B, is inviting the community on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 1 to 6 p.m. as it hosts a bone marrow donor drive and blood drive.

“Samantha, a 10-year-old warrior and the beloved daughter of a dear friend of one of our employees is our inspiration,” a news release says. “She’s courageously battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia for the second time. Samantha’s dreams are brimming with love, laughter, and adventures, not the fear that stems from her ongoing fight with AML, but she needs our help!”

In the child’s honor and the countless others like her, the center is aiming to register at least 200 potential bone marrow donors. The process to register is a simple, painless cheek swab.

“We have partnered with DKMS US in their mission to delete blood cancer and hope to add 200 Amarilloans to their registry for bone marrow donation. By registering, you provide hope and a chance for a cure, not only for Samantha, but for countless others in her situation,” the release continues.

In addition, blood donors have the opportunity to save more lives. According to the release, a single pint of blood can make a world of difference to people undergoing surgeries, facing emergencies or fighting life-threatening illnesses. The Coffee Memorial Blood Center will be at the event with their bloodmobile from 3 to 5:45 p.m.; donors will receive prizes and are asked to make an appointment.

The IVRS Wellness Center will have more prizes, live music provided by the New Generation Band, and food from La Catrina food truck. Blood donors will receive a $50 IVRS gift card.

“This event is a chance to change lives, and it’s Samantha’s story that shows us the strength of hope,” the release says. “We’re urging the Amarillo community to join with us, stand together, and offer hope when it’s needed most. Every drop counts, every swab matters.”

To book a time slot for a blood donation, visit online at bit.ly/IVRSBloodDriveOct21st.

For more information and for event updates, patrons can visit the event website or contact them by phone at 806-322-0747 or by email at [email protected], or visit their Facebook and Instagram pages.