Last Saturday, August 16, Community Blood Center had the privilege of partnering with former Kansas City Councilwoman Joanne M. Collins to host a very special blood drive at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Brookside.
In 1974, Ms. Collins was the first African American woman elected to serve on the Kansas City Council. She was re-elected to the position in the 1975, 1979, 1983, and 1987 general elections before retiring in 1991.
The August 16 blood drive honored Ms. Collins’ 90th birthday — a milestone made even more meaningful by her recent journey. Earlier this year, Ms. Collins survived a violent attack that left her fighting for her life. Emergency surgery and five units of donated blood gave her the chance to heal, recover, and celebrate this remarkable milestone with her loved ones.
In true trailblazing fashion, Ms. Collins chose to give back in a way that would extend her second chance to others: by hosting her first-ever blood drive, setting an ambitious goal of 90 donations in honor of her 90 years.
Thanks to the generosity of donors and community members, the Joanne M. Collins Community Blood Drive collected 34 donations, with the potential to impact up to 102 patients in our local hospitals. Each of those gifts represents hope, healing, and another chance at life — just like the one Ms. Collins received.
Community Blood Center is proud to stand alongside leaders like Ms. Collins who inspire us all to step up for our neighbors. Right now, Kansas City is facing an emergency blood shortage, and patients just like Joanne are counting on donors every day. You can honor her legacy by rolling up your sleeve and helping save lives.
