Future Eagle Scout organizing blood drive in honor of late grandfather

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WEATHERFORD — When Josh Kohlrust was searching for ideas of his Eagle Scout project, the one that surfaced almost immediately was one literally near and dear to his heart.

“This is important so people don’t have to possibly worry about their loved ones or friends not having enough blood due to lack of donations,” the WHS junior and member of Troop 76 (Grace First Presbyterian) said of his upcoming blood drive.

That journey is something Kohlrust experienced first hand. His grandfather passed away from blood cancer, but not before more than a decade of blood transfusions from donors helped keep him alive.

“This is for my Eagle Scout project, but it’s also in honor of him,” Kohlrust said.

A goal of 30 units (the average donation per person is about one unit) has been tentatively set for the Oct. 30 event at Weatherford College, organized in partnership with Red Cross.

Those interested are encouraged to sign up in advance at www.signupgenius.com/go/30E084EAAAA22A3F94-44799944-blood.

“We’ve had a lot of interest in it but not a lot of people signing up,” mom Taryn Kohlrust said. “The more people that sign up, the more we know how many phlebotomists to bring.

“I know it takes a little time, but it’s something almost anyone can do.”

The American Red Cross declared a national blood shortage on Sept. 11, citing a critically low blood supply level that dropped nearly 25% since early August. When supplies are low it can often take weeks for inventories to rebound, according to the organization.

Just one unit of blood can help save up to three lives.

For more information on Kohlrust’s project, visit facebook.com/events/s/red-cross-blood-drive/246795385004935/?mibextid=Gg3lNB

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