Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
WOOD CROSS, Utah (June 13, 2024) — The Wood Cross Youth City Council is rallying behind their fellow council member, Carter Gourley, as he recovers from a recent heart transplant. In a show of support to honor Carter’s journey to recovery, the council is hosting a blood drive on Friday, June 14, at the City of Wood Cross Public Works, 2287 South 1200 West, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Carter, a resilient 16-year-old junior at Bountiful High School, was born with a congenital heart condition and has undergone multiple open-heart surgeries. Following a recent heart transplant, which often necessitates critical blood transfusions during the operation, Carter is still in the process of recovering but looks forward to returning to school in the fall.
“We express our deepest gratitude to all blood donors, as their contributions have been indispensable for Carter’s surgeries and recovery,” shared Amy Gourley, Carter's mother. “Despite not liking a lot of attention, Carter is excited about the blood drive. He is immensely thankful and eager to give back to the community.”
Carter’s blood drive comes at a critical time as the American Red Cross reported a shortfall of more than 20,000 donations nationwide over the past few weeks needed to maintain the blood supply. Patients rely on the availability of donated blood for treating illnesses such as cancer, kidney disease and complications from sickle cell disease. Blood transfusions also prove lifesaving for victims of accidents and patients undergoing major surgery.
Make your appointment today for Carter’s blood drive
Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor code Carter to book an appointment for Friday's blood drive. If immediate donation opportunities are unavailable, donors are encouraged to schedule future appointments to help maintain a steady blood supply. Those who come to give June 10-30, 2024, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. For more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org/DoGood.
“Blood donation isn't just a simple gesture; it's a lifeline for those in need,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah & Southwest Wyoming Chapter. “When patients rely on blood products to survive, every donation can mean the difference between life and death. It's truly remarkable how a small act of giving can have such a profound impact on someone else's life.”
World Blood Donor Day
Carter’s blood drive coincides with the 20th anniversary of World Blood Donor Day. Wood Cross is joining is joining with the global community to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation. It’s a day to honor the contributions made by blood donors worldwide and encourage those who have never given to consider becoming a blood donor. “Any of us – our friends, family, neighbors – could one day need a transfusion. Yet, in the U.S., where 62% of the population is eligible to give, only about 3% does,” Smauldon said.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.