MURFREESBORO, Tenn. -
A blood drive will be held later this month for Murfreesboro police spokesperson Kyle Evans' six-year-old son.
Garett Evans was born with holes in the chambers of his heart.
"My son Garett is incredible. Since he was born, he has faced serious challenges, but he lives his life like there are no barriers. The strength and courage he shows everyday is absolutely inspirational," Kyle Evans said.
Garett underwent emergency surgery when he was born and has endured five additional operations since.
Throughout his treatment at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, he has required many units of blood.
"As a father, I've seen firsthand how important it is to donate blood when you can, because you never know when it's your son or daughter who could need blood at a moments notice. And as an officer, I've seen hundreds of people in tragic situations. Whether victims of crime or car accidents, these people need blood and it shouldn't take an emergency for people to donate blood. The need is constant," Evans said.
Evans said in honor of his son's battle, the American Red Cross asked if they could hold a blood drive in his name. He said Garett wanted to find a way to help the other children at the hospital who couldn't go home and thought holding a blood drive was a great way to help.
According to a release, Garett is doing well but faces more surgeries in the future. Evans said he is proud of his son's attitude and desire to help other kids.
The blood drive will be held on Tuesday, June 19 at the Patterson Park Community Center located at 521 Mercury Boulevard.
All presenting donors will receive a t-shirt and will be entered to win a Gibson guitar as part of the American Red Cross' Rock and Roll Up Your Sleeve summer campaign.
Students who attend the blood drive will also be entered to win a $5,000 scholarship.
For more information on how to donate blood and to sign up, visit the American Red Cross' Web site.
A blood drive is scheduled for June 19 in honor of Garett Evans, 6.
