The inaugural “In Memory of Jess Garrison” Blood Drive at Southern Elementary School in New Castle, Delaware, collected 61 units on Wednesday, April 1.
The drive was held one week before the one-year anniversary of Jess Garrison’s passing in April 2025. A New Castle resident, Jess was the wife of Southern Elementary teacher Richelle Plewinski. She passed away from acute myeloid leukemia.
“Hopefully, this becomes an annual event,” said Karen Weber, a Southern Elementary teacher who coordinated the drive alongside Richelle. Both thanked Principal Rich Bryson for hosting the event in the school cafeteria.
The drive drew teachers, staff, community members, and family members of Richelle and Jess, some of whom traveled from Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
“Jess touched so many lives and will always be remembered for her kindness and willingness to help others,” Richelle said. “She gave selflessly, wholeheartedly, and with love. During her battle with AML, she received countless transfusions thanks to generous blood donors. By hosting this drive, we honor her incredible spirit by helping others.”
