Central Catholic Partners with Colton Strong Kids for Blood & Toy Drive on March 24
Central Catholic High School, Colton Strong Kids, and the American Red Cross are once again partnering to hold a community blood drive and toy drive on Tuesday, March 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Krompak Hall. Colton Strong Kids is an organization that supports area children who are fighting pediatric cancer. It provides comprehensive grants, programs, and assistance initiatives to offer the necessary support to help families navigate this difficult period with resilience and optimism.
The organization, created by the Stanley family, is named for Colton Stanley, the son of former Central Catholic teacher and head girls’ basketball coach, Corri (Helldobler) Stanley, Class of 2003. He was diagnosed with T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma in July 2023, just weeks after his 4th birthday. This past November, Colton rang the bell marking the end of his cancer treatment.
Students, staffulty, CCHS family members, and community members are scheduled to donate blood throughout the day on March 24, and many others will be bringing toys. To join them, please visit redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment. The sponsor code is CENTRALCATHOLICHS. Everyone who donates will receive a $15 gift card from the American Red Cross via email.
New, unwrapped toys and gift cards will be donated to the Russell J. Ebeid Toledo Children’s Hospital pediatric hematology/oncology unit, which was Colton’s unit during his treatment.
“The Central Catholic blood drive is always such a special day for our family,” said Corri Stanley. “It’s centered on giving back in one of the most selfless ways possible - through blood donation. During Colton’s active treatment, he received multiple blood transfusions that gave him the strength he needed to continue his fight against childhood cancer. This cause will forever be close to our hearts.
“Hosting this event at my alma mater, Central Catholic High School, with the support of Irish Nation means so much to us. The fact that CCHS believes in the importance of blood donation just as strongly as we do speak volumes about the incredible community it truly is. We are beyond grateful for the students, staff, donors, and supporters who continue to show up and give the gift of life.”
The American Red Cross is currently facing a critical blood shortage, with hospital requests outpacing supply. Every donation truly makes a difference. One donation can save up to three lives and bring hope to patients and families fighting childhood cancer.
Why Blood Donation Matters to Us
By Colton Strong Kids
Children undergoing cancer treatment often require regular blood transfusions to avoid life-threatening complications. These transfusions provide critical support, helping them regain strength and continue their fight.
For families, knowing that blood is available offers much-needed emotional relief during a time of unimaginable stress. Every donation is truly a gift - of time, of hope, and of life.
This cause is deeply personal to us. Our own son received multiple transfusions during his battle with childhood cancer. We’ve seen firsthand how essential blood donations are. Donating is one of the most powerful, selfless ways to honor the brave children fighting battles no child should ever have to face.
