The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Life!

October 21, 2012

Terri’s Blood Drive aims for No. 1

Dana Treadway spearheads the annual Terri Massey Memorial Blood Drive in Oak Hill. Surprising to her was that the event is the third largest blood drive in the Mountain State.

“I guess we should be honored that nearly 100 donors puts us in the top three,” said Treadway, “but in my mind, there should be a much higher number to rank third.”

This year’s Terri Massey Memorial Blood Drive is set Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Gospel Tabernacle Church, Oyler Avenue, Oak Hill. Door prizes, food, T-shirts and pink decor draw attention and attract donors. But this year, in hopes of rising in the donor rankings, Treadway has something special planned.

“We’ve got my son’s old car, which Barry (Massey) painted pink, and we’re going to Bash Breast Cancer Oct. 26 and 27,” said Treadway.

People will pay to bang on the old car with a ball bat and take out their routine frustrations and repurpose their anger about the disease.

“We thought it would be fun for everyone to watch, and it would attract attention to the blood drive on the high-traffic Oyler Avenue.”

Oct. 29 marks the three-year anniversary of Terri’s death, which came at age 39 after her four-year battle against breast cancer. Terri’s Tribute was founded in January 2010 as a way to raise money for scholarships for Terri’s kids and others who’ve lost a parent to breast cancer.

The group also raises awareness about breast cancer by promoting the world's longest pink ribbon scarf now on display at Tamarack.

“The blood drive is close to our hearts because Terri told many of us she got to spend more time with her kids because of transfusions. She was grateful, and so were we.” said Treadway. “By being a blood donor, you are truly giving the gift of life. Whether people are facing injuries, surgeries, disease or other medical traumas, there is never enough blood to fulfill all the need.”

It would take 150 donors to be ranked No. 1, a goal Treadway thinks is attainable.

“It’s easy, it’s quick, it makes you feel good, and we have a festive atmosphere at the blood drive,” she said. “Come out and help us make our goal.”

To donate during the Terri Massey Memorial Blood Drive, call for an appointment at 304-640-6996 or 304-663-2410.

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