San Antonio Teen's Legacy Inspires Community to Donate Blood: Urgent Need for Donors
San Antonio is mourning the loss of Mike Gallegos Jr., a brave 16-year-old who fought leukemia for ten months before passing away last week. His family, devastated by his death, is sharing his story to encourage more people to donate blood.
Family Strength Through Tragedy
Mike Gallegos Sr., Mike Jr.'s father, expressed the pain of losing his son to cancer, emphasizing the critical need for blood donations in such cases. He highlighted the constant requirement for platelets and blood, regardless of the type of cancer a patient is fighting.
Severe Blood Shortage in South Texas
The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center is facing a severe shortage of blood supply, with a call to action for donors to help replenish the inventory. Francine Pina, a senior manager at the center, highlighted the immediate need for all blood types, especially O-positive and O-negative, as they strive to support cancer patients among others.
Honoring Mike Jr.'s Memory
Following Mike Jr.'s passing, his family decided to pay tribute to him by donating blood and advocating for others to do the same. They are organizing a blood drive to remember him and are inviting the San Antonio community to participate.
The Gallegos family will be hosting a balloon release event at Stevens High School Football Field on Sunday, July 21, at 11 a.m., welcoming everyone to join in and bring their own balloons to honor Mike Jr.
To make a difference in the lives of children like Mike Jr., individuals can schedule a blood donation or drive through SouthTexasBlood.org. Your contribution could save a life and uphold the memory of a courageous teenager.