Yesterday’s blood drive at Hermantown High School in Minnesota served as a powerful reminder of the impact communities can have when they come together for a shared purpose.

Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) has proudly partnered with Hermantown High School on student-led blood drives for many years. This winter’s drive, however, carried special meaning. In October 2025, Hermantown junior Reese was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). In her honor, students dedicated today’s drive to supporting patients like Reese who rely on lifesaving blood transfusions during treatment.

The response was extraordinary. Students, school staff, community members, and Reese’s father joined together to donate, resulting in record-breaking participation. Each donation collected will help patients throughout the region, with today’s efforts expected to help save up to 210 lives.

We thank Hermantown High School and the entire community for demonstrating what it truly means to give from the heart. The generosity shown today will make a lasting difference for patients in need, and Reese’s inspiring impact will extend far beyond this single event.