A Nampa family is honoring son, brother and fiancé Kolton Hundersmarck by holding an American Red Cross blood drive on what would have been his 26th birthday.
The Red Cross and Hundersmarck family are encouraging the community to help remember his passion for community service by giving blood Friday, Oct. 19, from noon to 6 p.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints – Ruth Building, 927 Ruth Lane.
While training with the Army for explosive ordnance disposal in Florida, Hundersmarck was in a car accident that left him with a traumatic brain injury. He was in a coma for nine days and received many blood products, but died on April 11, 2016, at age 23. He left behind a fiancé, five brothers, his parents, numerous friends and extended family.
Even in death, Hundersmarck’s commitment to helping others was fulfilled when his organs were donated, including his liver, which went to a close family friend who likely would not have otherwise received one.
“We would love to have people who knew and loved Kolton to donate in his memory and honor,” said his father, Aaron Hundersmarck. “Though his life was short, he influenced so many people from all walks of life and from many corners of the world. He lived more, loved more, helped more and accomplished more in his short 23 years than many do in a lifetime. To have the honor of being a part of this blood drive, participating in any way, shows in a small way that he is still loved and making an impact.”
A blood donor himself, Kolton Hundersmarck believed strongly in the importance of giving blood. As an Eagle Scout, he hosted a blood drive where he encouraged community members to donate, many for the first time.
To make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App and use sponsor code RUTHBLG.
How to donate blood
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
