Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
CLINTON, Utah (March 10, 2025) — The family and friends of McKay Hansen invite the community to honor his remarkable life by joining a Red Cross of Utah blood drive. McKay, a courageous 13-year-old who fought cancer for a decade, relied on the generosity of blood and platelet donors throughout his battle. The blood drive will take place on Thursday, March 13, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Clinton Utah West Stake, 1828 North 3000 West.
McKay was first diagnosed with Stage 4, High-Risk Neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that affects young children, in 2014 at the age of 3. Through extensive treatments, supported by 244 blood and platelet transfusions, McKay demonstrated incredible resilience and hope during his fight.
After five years in remission, McKay’s cancer returned. He spent three additional years fighting relentlessly to overcome the disease. When his bone marrow failed, blood and platelet transfusions became a lifeline. These donations extended the final six months of McKay’s life, giving him and his family precious time to create memories they will treasure forever. He passed away on March 17, 2024, at the age of 13.
“Our family is forever grateful to the selfless blood donors who gave McKay the gift of more time. These donations not only helped sustain him but allowed us to create life-long memories we wouldn’t have had otherwise,” said Shae Hansen, McKay’s mother.
Schedule Your Blood Donation in McKay’s Honor
The Hansen family urges the community to give the lifesaving gift of blood in McKay’s memory. Donors can schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor code clintonwest to book your appointment for this Thursday or find another convenient blood drive or donation center.
Why Blood Donations Matter
Patients like McKay depend on blood donations to treat illnesses such as leukemia, kidney disease and complications from sickle cell disease. Blood and platelet transfusions also help save the lives of trauma patients and those undergoing major surgery.
“This blood drive is a heartfelt way to honor McKay’s legacy and highlights the critical importance of blood and platelet donations in saving lives,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “With recent severe weather leading to over 30,000 uncollected blood donations nationwide, we encourage everyone to consider donating to ensure patients in need receive these vital resources.”
Addressing Diabetes with A1C Screenings
To improve access to health care, the Red Cross of Utah is offering free A1C tests for blood donors throughout March. This valuable screening tool helps identify diabetes and prediabetes at no cost. Additionally, those who come to give in March will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/March for more details.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.