The Maryland State Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 69 is hosting an American Red Cross blood drive on Tuesday, Jan. 6 and Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 1:30- 7 p.m. for 12-year-old Emily Kolenda, a Catonsville resident with a rare brain disorder who receives monthly blood transfusions.
Emily was diagnosed with Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) in January, 2012.
The disorder damages brain tissue and is characterized by a brief widespread attack of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, which damages myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers.
Emily is a student at Monsignor Slade Catholic School in Glen Burnie.
The blood drive also has support from the Glen Burnie Elks Lodge 2266, Ravens Roost 117 as well as Emily's school and church, according to a release from the American Red Cross.
Blood donations in honor of Emily will be accepted from 1:30-7 p.m. next week at FOP Lodge 69, 2832 Nine Mile Circle, in Catonsville.
Donors are asked to call 1-800-RED CROSS or go to http://www.redcrossblood.org/emilykolenda to schedule a blood donation appointment.