The Blood Bank of Hawaii is holding two blood drives. They are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday in Hilo at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and June 20-22 in Kailua-Kona at The LDS Church Kona’s cultural hall.
Those wishing to provide blood for the Dave Yamagata Lifesaver Club are asked to provide the group code 3307 upon arrival. Donations are by appointment only, (808) 848-4770.
Dave Yamagata of Kona is tackling myelodysplastic syndrome — a bone marrow disorder that prevents his body from making its own red blood cells.
Because of his critical condition, Yamagata is dependent on the availability of blood transfusions. The long-time paddler, who grew up planting coffee and ranching on his family’s farm in Kealakekua, needs a transfusion every two to four weeks.