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MILL CREEK – The American Red Cross recently held a blood drive at Tygarts Valley High School that saw close to 100 community members sign up to donate blood.
The event was held in memory of longtime community member and football coach Shane “Big Dawg” Maxwell. The Mill Creek resident passed away in December of 2020 at the age of 47 following a courageous battle with cancer.
More than 75 donors were able to give blood, many doing so for the first time because of the impact Maxwell had on their lives either as a coach, a mentor, or a friend.
American Red Cross Regional Director Mitch Short said that the blood drive was “the largest blood drive in the region.” Delegate Jonathan Kyle also attended the event and praised the communities’ support.
“The blood drive wasn’t just about donating blood, it was about honoring a man who meant so much to this community,” Kyle said. “Shane (Maxwell) poured his heart into our young people and it’s inspiring to see so many people come together to continue making a difference in his memory. The turnout speaks volumes about the caring and compassionate people who call Tygarts Valley home.”
Kyle’s wife, Angela, coordinates American Red Cross blood drives frequently in Mill Creek and organized the event in honor of Maxwell. Participation from the Mill Creek community is always consistent, and the drive in honor of Maxwell was the largest and most successful one Angela Kyle has organized, officials said.
“I’m incredibly proud of Angela and the passion she has for organizing these blood drives,” Jonathan Kyle said. “She puts countless hours into making them successful because she understands that every donation has the potential to save a life. Seeing this community rally around such an important cause is something special.”
For more information about blood drives in Randolph and surrounding counties, visit www.redcrossblood.org.