The American Red Cross invites Pequot Lakes residents to join a life-saving mission by donating blood at the upcoming Pequot Lakes Community Blood Drive. This event, dedicated to the memory of Ken Meyer, a long-time Blood Program Leader and devoted Red Cross volunteer, will be held on July 31 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and August 1 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pequot Lakes American Legion.

Ken Meyer, who passed away on September 22, 2023, after a brief battle with cancer, was a beloved community member and passionate advocate for blood donation. Over nearly thirty years, Ken's dedication to hosting blood drives resulted in the collection of more than 3,300 pints of blood, helping save countless lives. This year's drive is especially meaningful as it falls on what would have been Ken's birthday, August 1. 

Kenneth “Ken” Meyer was born in Verdi, MN and served 10 years in the US Navy, primarily aboard the USS Oriskany. He later worked 30 years in the HVAC industry. After retiring, he and his wife sally moved to Pequot Lakes, where he was active in community organizations, including his church, Gloria Dei Lutheran, as part of the color guard for the American Legion and dedicated mentor for the young men at Legion Boys State. His military service instilled in him a deep sense of duty, which he carried into his civilian life. Ken’s dedication to service, whether in the Navy or his local community, left a lasting impact on those around him. 

"Ken’s commitment to the Red Cross and the Pequot Lakes area was truly inspiring," said Beth Medeiros, who volunteered at Ken’s drives and is the new Blood Program Leader. "His legacy of service and dedication motivates us to continue his work. We encourage everyone to come out and donate in his honor."

Medeiros is continuing Ken’s tradition and invites all community members to participate. The goal for this drive is to collect 78 units of blood, helping to meet the urgent need for donations during summer months.

To make an appointment for the blood drive In Memory of Ken Meyer simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), sponsor keyword "Pequot Lakes Legion".

How to Donate Blood
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card, 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.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the free Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Minnesota and Dakotas Red Cross region is comprised of nine community chapters and five Blood Donation Centers, serving more than 7.3 million people. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. Learn more at RedCross.org/MNDAKS