Blood drive scheduled in memory of GHS student

GAINESVILLE - Organizers are putting together a blood drive in memory of a Gainesville High School student killed in a traffic accident a year ago.

Patrick Kelley died in the crash on Clarks Bridge Road on his 18th birthday, December 20 of last year.

Life South Community Blood Centers is hosting the drive in Kelley's memory on Saturday. It's from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville. (Please note this time is an extension from the time reported earlier.)

"This blood drive is just so much a part of what Patrick was about, about constantly helping people," Phalan Henry said. She was a friend of Kelley's and is helping organize the drive.

"When I found out that not only did he want to do a blood drive, before he passed away, but that he thought it was important, I knew that definitely had to do this for him," Henry said.

Kelley was a beloved student, excelling in music, academics and extracurricular activities including Boy Scouts and church.

Grace Episcopal is at 422 Brenau Avenue, Gainesville, GA 30501.

Officials say to drink plenty of water and eat prior to donating. You must be 17 or older, (16 year olds may donate with written parental consent) weigh 110 pounds or more and show ID.