East Side Fixture to Host Blood Drive on June 14
(South Texas Blood and Tissue News Release) – Local hotspot Big Lou’s Pizza is celebrating World Blood Donor Day, June 14, in honor of its founder, “Pops” Lujan. Samantha Lujan, granddaughter of Pops, is hosting a blood drive to give back to the community.
On June 14, anybody who donates blood at Big Lou’s Pizza, 2048 S. W.W. White Road, will receive a 20-inch one topping pizza, a special Big Lou’s Pizza commemorative T-shirt and a Valero gas card after a successful donation. The drive will run from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Pops was diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a rare but serious blood disorder that prevents the body from making blood cells and especially platelets, which are necessary to prevent infections and uncontrolled bleeding. He was diagnosed when Samantha was 4 years old and passed away when she was 9.
He needed multiple transfusions, inspiring the family to host blood drives.
“I’d give anything for a few moments with my grandpa,” Samantha said. “I hope each donation helps someone else have more time with their loved ones – every moment and donation counts.”
The drive comes at the perfect time, as June 14 is World Blood Donor Day, when countries across the globe raise awareness of the need for blood and to thank voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their lifesaving gifts of blood.
Slots for the Big Lou’s Blood Drive are still open. Call 210-731-5590 or schedule an appointment here.
