Rock River Valley Blood Center plans donation on anniversary of Jennifer Ford's death

The Rock River Valley Blood Center Coordinates an event to remember a colleague, Jennifer Ford, on the anniversary of her death.

On December 11, 2018, The Rock River Blood Center lost one of its beloved employees.

"We have decided to hold a blood drive, a community blood drive in Jen Ford's honor,” said Director of Operations Heidi Ognibene. “She was a 15 year employee at the blood center. She is very passionate about her job, believed in what she did, and loved the blood center. We just want to do something to honor her memory.”

Someone shot and killed the 44-year-old Ford in the 200 block of north horsman street. The death is still under investigation. Her colleagues say they miss her dearly.

"Her favorite was high school mobile, she loved going out and being with the kids. She was passionate, friendly and kind," said Ognibene.

"She would just really love the nice things that anyone that you ask anyone about her would have to say," Special Services Collections Coordinator Lashunda Morris.

Ford wanted to help save lives by encouraging people to donate. One coworker tells me giving blood isn't as scary as it seems.

"The needle part that everyone is so worried about... It takes only 5 to 8 minutes to draw a unit of blood and save up to three people's lives."

"It's kind of ironic that it's around Christmastime, the giving season, because that's the kind of person she was. I hope people will keep her spirit and her memory going all year round."

The center hopes everyone will participate in the memorial on Wednesday, December 11th- and wear purple because it was her favorite color.

They will also dedicate a garden angel statue to Ford. A plaque will be added in the spring.