Blood appeal in memory of child attracts new donors (From Borehamwood Times)

Joely Bear Appeal in memory of four-year-old Joel Renak continues to attract new donors

5:20pm Monday 18th March 2013 in News By Anna Slater

A blood donation appeal in memory of a four-year-old who died of a rare cancer is going from strength to strength.

The Joely Bear Appeal held its four-monthly blood drive Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue, in Croxdale Road, on Sunday.

Yesterday’s event marked the 55th donor session in memory of four-year-old Joel Renak, who died of a rare form of liver cancer in November 1994.

Around 20 new donors turned up to give blood yesterday, including 17-year-old Michael Simmonds and brother and sister Candice and Chester Conway.

Joel’s brother, Dan Renak, 24, said: “Joel would have recently celebrated his 23rd birthday.

“Each donation could go to three separate people, and because 153 people donated yesterday up to 459 people will benefit from yesterday’s session.”

Since the appeal was launched in February 1995, over 8,000 people have donated blood and platelets at the events, which also features free activities for children.

The next session will be held on Sunday, July 21 at Yavneh College, Hillside Avenue, Borehamwood.

To book an appointment, click here.