Each September, Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) recognizes Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and the strength and resilience of children and families who have bravely faced cancer diagnoses. Blood and platelet transfusions can be an important part of cancer treatment, helping patients through chemotherapy, surgeries and other lifesaving care.
This September, BBD will host three blood drives inspired by local children whose cancer journeys demonstrate the important role blood donors can play in patient care.
Remy’s Heroes
BBD and the Delaware Department of Insurance are hosting the fourth annual “Remy’s Heroes” blood drive on Tuesday, September 8, in honor of 12-year-old Remy, a two-time lymphoma survivor and bone marrow transplant recipient. Remy, the son of Delaware Department of Insurance employee Jen Welch, received his bone marrow transplant from his younger sister, Evangeline, who was just 3 years old at the time.
Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro has donated at each Remy’s Heroes blood drives since the annual event began four years ago, when the department rallied around Remy and his family during his cancer treatment.
“We host our event in September each year to honor Remy’s cancer journey,” Commissioner Navarro said. “Unfortunately, most Delawareans will be touched by a cancer diagnosis, whether personally or through someone they know. We’ve made this an annual tradition to not only help our employee’s family but others across Delmarva in need of blood.”
The Remy’s Heroes Blood Drive is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, September 8, at the Department of Insurance, 1351 W. North St., Suite 101, Dover, DE 19904.
As an added thank-you during the Labor Day holiday period, those who come to donate with BBD from September 2–9 will be entered for a chance to win one of eight $500 Target gift cards.
In Honor of Georgia Callis
BBD will join the Callis family for the third annual “In Honor of Georgia Callis Blood Drive” on Saturday, September 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Rising Sun American Legion in Rising Sun, Maryland.
The event is deeply personal for the Callis family. During her treatment for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Georgia received nine red cell and five platelet transfusions. Her mother, Whitney Callis, now coordinates the annual blood drive as a way to help other families facing similar experiences. Last year, the drive brought in 52 donor appointments.
In December 2025, Georgia proudly rang the bell to mark the end of intensive treatment at the hospital. While she has years to go before remission, Georgia is back to doing many of the things she loves most: dressing up like a princess, playing with her brother, Gavin, and taking the field for T-ball for the first time this year.
“We do this in September for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month,” Whitney said. “I want to help as many kids as I can, because people have helped us.”
The In Honor of Georgia Callis Blood Drive is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, September 26, at Rising Sun American Legion, 388 E Main St, Rising Sun, MD 21911.
Hero Day
BBD will partner with CityLight Vineyard and the family of Caleb Quick for the third annual “Hero Day” on Sunday, September 27, honoring local children and teens fighting cancer.
The drive was inspired by Caleb, now 11, who received three red cell and two platelet transfusions while undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. His mother, Naomi Quick, and family have since organized blood drives with BBD as a way to give back and support other patients and families.
“As a family, we are committed to raising awareness for childhood cancer and connecting the community to the needs of children who are fighting for their lives,” Naomi said.
The Hero Day blood dirve is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, September 27 at Newark Charter School, 200 McIntire Dr, Newark, DE 19711.
There are numerous blood donor perks and a raffle for restaurant gift cards. Alongside the blood drive will be superhero themed fun for all ages and other practical ways the community can honor and support local kids and teens fighting cancer.
Those interested in honoring a loved one or bringing their community together around a lifesaving cause are invited to host a blood drive with Blood Bank of Delmarva. Community organizations, businesses, fire departments, schools, and other groups are encouraged to get involved. Learn more about hosting a blood drive here.