LEWISTON — LifeFlight of Maine and the American Red Cross will host a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, at Central Maine Medical Center.

The event is in honor of Kinzie Frey of Auburn, a resilient 6-year-old girl who has been dependent on blood therapy during an acute treatment related to neuroblastoma, a cancer that starts in early nerve cells.

Frey inspires others through her fearless determination, bravery and tenacity in the face of illness.

“During Kinzie’s treatment in Boston, there was a period of time when she received blood and blood products almost every day,” said Lori Metayer of LifeFlight. “People feel so helpless when a little one is sick like this. She was an inspiration for this drive.”

Although all blood types are encouraged to donate, event coordinators are requesting that people with blood types O-, O+, A- and B- consider a Power Red donation to support LifeFlight trauma patients. A Power Red donation by qualifying donors collects two units of blood at one time, helping more people who may be in need.

LifeFlight carries two units of blood at all times, which adds to the gravity of need for donations at the blood drive.

“We believe some patients would not have survived if not for the administration of blood in the helicopter,” Metayer said.

What: Blood Drive in Honor of Kinzie Frey, hosted by LifeFlight of Maine and American Red Cross

When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16.

Where: CMMC Conference Center, 12 High St., Lewiston (Conference Rooms A, B and C)

Details: Interested donors can make appointments online at redcrossblood.org by entering the sponsor code “LifeFlight.” Walk-ins are also welcome.

About Kinzie Frey

Kinzie Frey is a 6-year-old girl who was diagnosed with severe neuroblastoma in 2015. She lives in Auburn with her family. FMI: tinyurl.com/hq2g6r9.