Soldier's dog is inspiration behind annual blood drive

By Mr. Karl Weisel (IMCOM)January 14, 2014

Soldier's dog is inspiration behind annual blood drive
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

WIESBADEN, Germany - She's striking back, and community members are asked to join her in the effort.

The she in question is Master Sgt. Clark Kuhling's canine pal Holly Eva, the inspiration behind the 24th Military Intelligence Battalion and Wiesbaden Red Cross's third annual Holly Eva blood drive at Wiesbaden's Tony Bass Fitness Center June 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

"Everyone who donates gets a Holly Eva Strikes Back T-shirt," said Kuhling, "and hopefully a picture with the dog."

Kuhling started the blood drive in Holly Eva's name, with help from the American Red Cross, three years ago as a way to draw attention to the never-ending requirement for fresh blood donations to help those in need.

After his dog almost died following anterior cruciate ligament surgery which "kept getting infected," she received a blood transfusion from a donor dog which at first didn't provide any relief, he said. "The doctors thought the only thing that would help was human plasma -- but then the dog's blood took."

Holly Eva will once again be on hand to welcome contributors to the blood drive on Jan. 30.

"Each pint of blood can save up to three lives, and the blood banks can never have too much," Kuhling said, encouraging a large turnout. "And the T-shirts are awesome."

Why should people take the time to donate blood?

"For me, it's one of those things where you never pay attention until a family member or four-legged friend needs it," Kuhling said.

For more information about donating blood or the Armed Services Blood Program visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil.

Related Links:

Armed Forces Blood Bank

Herald Union Online