The Johnston Community will come together on June 30 in support of an eight-year old town resident who is fighting for his life. Several town organizations are sponsoring a community blood and marrow registration drive in support of Daniel Shepard, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Johnston Senior Center, 1291 Hartford Ave.

Daniel, an only child, was diagnosed with leukemia in February, and is currently undergoing treatment. He will likely need a marrow transplant. A search is currently underway through the National Marrow Donor Registry to find a match for Daniel.

Throughout his treatment Daniel has also received numerous blood products.

The blood and marrow drive is being sponsored by the Johnston Senior Center, Town of Johnston, Department of Recreation, Johnston Senior High School, North Central Chamber of Commerce, and Johnston Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #16.

Blood donors must be 17 years old or older, weigh 110 pounds and be in overall good health. There is no upper age limit for blood donors.

To register for the marrow program, individuals must be between 18 and 60-years old and in good health. Registration is a simple process, requiring only a swab of your cheek cells for marrow typing. The cost of testing is paid either by your health insurance or by Michael’s Fund of Fall River.

“We are hopeful of an excellent turnout for this drive,” said Cory Robinson, account manager for the Rhode Island Blood Center, the state’s only blood collection agency. “Not only do we want to show support for Daniel, but by donating blood and registering for the marrow program, residents will be helping to save numerous lives, while giving hope to blood recipients and their families.”

The Rhode Island Blood Center is charged with collecting up to 280 pints of blood each day to meet the needs of individuals who are hospitalized within the community.

-From the Rhode Island Blood Center