Rice University community extend support for one of their own at blood drive

The Rice University community showed its support for the son of a fellow Owl by making life-saving blood donations on campus Jan. 30 and 31.

While Rice frequently participates in blood drives, this one was held in honor of Leonel Romero, the 16-year-old son of Housing and Dining Interim Operations Manager Noel Romero (pictured above). Leonel is undergoing treatment for acute myeloid leukemia and requires blood transfusions.

Originally scheduled for only one day, the drive was expanded to include a second day due to overflowing support from faculty, students and staff.

Rice Emergency Medical Services hosted the event in partnership with the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center.