Blood drive honors former GHS student

GAINESVILLE - When Patrick Kelley was deciding on his Eagle Scout project, a blood drive to help others was one suggestion. So, a year after he died, when Phalan Henry, a former classmate, asked to hold a blood drive in his memory, his mom Cheryl Kelley was touched by the coincidence.<br /> <br /> "He had donated, he hated needles, it petrified him, but he thought it was important," said Cheryl Kelley.<br /> <br /> Patrick was an Eagle Scout and played euphonium for GHS's Big Red Machine, where he was brass section leader for two years. He was also a cellist, was involved in many activities at Gainesville High School, and was an active member of the youth group at Grace Episcopal Church. He died in a car accident December 20, 2011, his 18th birthday.<br /> <br /> On Dec. 13, his friends will honor him with the Third Annual Patrick Kelley Memorial Blood Drive which will be held at Gainesville High School, from 1:00-4:00. <br /> <br /> LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will host the blood drive but donors must be at least 17, or 16 with parental permission, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. A photo ID is also required. All donors receive a pair of LifeSouth socks and a complimentary cholesterol screening. Bruster's Real Ice Cream in Gainesville will also offer a "pint-for-a-pint." All donors will be able to pick up a free pint of ice cream that Saturday after donating.<br /> <br /> Donors will help LifeSouth prepare for the blood needs of the holiday season, when donations typically drop off. <br /> <br /> "I think it's an important way to keep Patrick's spirit alive," said Cheryl Kelley.<br /> <br /> For additional information call LifeSouth's Marry Owens at 706-429-7144.<br /> <br />

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