By Chris Overman
Five-year-old Adeline Lovell of Clear Lake and her family will “pay it forward” at an upcoming American Red Cross community blood drive and toy donation event. The event will be held on Friday May 19 from 12:30-5:30 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, 112 N. 4th Street in Clear Lake.
At the tender age of four, Adeline Lovell was well-known in the community as an energetic, outgoing, sweet, spunky kid who spread friendship and joy wherever she went. She came face-to-face with a scary monster on July 6, 2022, when doctors diagnosed her with High-Risk B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Since then, Adeline has received numerous blood and platelet transfusions at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City. Thanks to selfless blood and platelet donors, advanced medical technology, skilled and caring medical professionals, a flood of prayers and the family’s unending faith, Adeline Lovell’s illness is now in remission.
“Adeline lost some of her innocence when she was suddenly diagnosed with leukemia at four years old – but she has GAINED so much more than what was lost,” said Morgan Lovell, Adeline’s mother. “We are so thankful for what God has done in and for our whole family and for the generosity of those who give of themselves to help others.”
In addition to blood donations, the Lovell Family is asking for community donations of new toys to be shared with other children facing similar challenges.
“The toys Adeline was given while in Iowa City receiving treatment have been such a blessing to Adeline,” said Chris Lovell, Adeline’s father, and Chief Operating Officer of CL Tel in Clear Lake. “We want to give other kids that same opportunity by filling the CL Tel splicing trailer with donated toys to be delivered to Iowa City.”
To make an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.