On Presidents Day, a federal holiday when schools are typically closed, the cafeteria at Reed Intermediate School in Newtown was buzzing with energy. Students, teachers, and community members gathered – not for classes, but to celebrate and honor beloved teacher Julie Shull through blood donation.

Julie, a 20-year resident of Sandy Hook, is the kind of person who leaves a lasting impact on everyone she meets. Whether in the classroom or the community, she radiates kindness and resilience – qualities that have become even more evident in her ongoing battle with cancer.

Originally diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s B-cell lymphoma in 2020, she underwent an autologous stem cell transplant in November 2023. Most recently, she was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, a condition that affects blood cell production. Throughout her treatment she has required frequent transfusions of both blood and platelets, at times as often as once a day.

For those who know Julie, supporting her in this fight was never a question – it was a call to action. Among them was her close friend, Karin LaBanca, who is just weeks away from celebrating one year cancer-free. Knowing firsthand the power of support, Karin wanted to do something meaningful.

Karin reached out to the Red Cross to organize a blood drive in Julie’s honor. The response from the community was overwhelming. Appointments for the first drive filled up within hours, prompting the scheduling of a second just three weeks later.

A dedicated donor for 30 years before her own cancer treatment, Karin has always been passionate about giving back. “If I can’t donate right now, I wanted to organize an event for others to give,” she said with a smile. Every donation matters to her, knowing it may help someone in need. With every person who walked into the cafeteria, Karin felt deep gratitude – a reflection of Julie’s own generous spirit.

Julie’s dear friends Neasa Waaler and Amy DeLoughy have also shown their support every step of the way, incorporating other ways for blood donors to share their support for Julie into the day, including a card basket and taping short video messages.

“Julie represents the best of Newtown – as a teacher and also as a beautiful person giving to others,” Neasa said. “It is so great to see the community come together for Julie. It is the most poignant way to honor her and wish her well”.

Jessica Fonovic, a math specialist at Reed and longtime friend of Julie, is a dedicated blood donor with a personal goal to give as often as she can. “Julie is extremely positive,” she said. “When you see how great the need is, it’s inspiring to see so many people sacrifice their time to help. It’s a reflection of the good that Julie emanates.”

Former student Kaylee Hall, now a high school senior, was in Julie’s 6th grade class. This is her second time donating blood, and as an aspiring nurse, she understands just how important it is. “Mrs. Shull is amazing, and the opportunity to give back is amazing. I’m happy to do this for her today after all she has done for me.”

The best part of the day? A quick Facetime to Julie to show her around drive and say hello to those who came out to donate.

Another surprise: Karin presented the Red Cross with a $1,000 donation from Julie’s loved ones, supporting the blood services program in her name.

Overall, the two blood drives brought in 94 people, with a third of them being first-time donors. The outpouring of support through these blood drives is a testament to the deep love and admiration the Newtown community has for Julie. Each donation not only honors her but also reflects the kindness and compassion she embodies every day. As Julie continues her journey, her strength and determination will undoubtedly carry her forward, with a community standing by her every step of the way.

Make a blood donation appointment today. Visit RedCrossBlood.org to learn more.