On Saturday, September 6, 2025, the Strongman Luca James Foundation is partnering with The Blood Connection and the Myrtle Beach Pelicans for a community blood drive in honor of Ava Westbury.
At just ten years old, Ava is bravely battling B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Her journey, and the strength of her family, remind us why every donation matters. Cancer treatment often requires blood transfusions, giving children like Ava and Luca the strength they need to keep fighting.
Why Blood Donations Matter
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. Yet only about 3% of eligible Americans donate. That means patients facing cancer, surgery, or trauma rely on a very small pool of donors to meet a constant, urgent need. Each pint of blood has the power to save up to three lives.
That same spirit of giving has been reflected across the community. Earlier in August, Elko Spas, Billiards & Pools hosted a pep rally and silent auction in Ava’s honor, raising funds to support her family during treatment. Moments like these show the many ways our neighbors are stepping up, whether by giving blood, donating, or showing up to cheer Ava on.
For families like the Westburys, this isn’t just a statistic, it’s a lifeline. Ava’s treatments may call for transfusions that give her the strength to heal, play, and keep moving forward. Your donation could be the reason a child like Ava wakes up with hope.
Event Details
| 📅 Date: | Saturday, September 6, 2025 |
| 🕙 Time: | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| 📍 Location: | Myrtle Beach Pelicans Stadium 1251 21st Ave N, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 |
Donors who give blood during the drive will receive $30 in rewards and The Blood Connection will also grant $500 to the foundation for every 30+ units collected.
Join the Gold Out Game
After giving blood, stay and cheer on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans at the evening’s “Gold Out” game, held in recognition of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. We encourage everyone to wear gold or yellow to show support for pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and their families.
How You Can Help
Donate blood – roll up your sleeve and give the gift of life.
Bring a friend – every donor helps us get closer to meeting our community’s needs.
Wear gold – stand in solidarity with Ava, Luca, and every child facing cancer.
Your donation matters more than you may ever know. Every drop brings strength to a child, comfort to a family, and hope to our community. Together, we can honor Ava and ensure no child or family has to face this fight alone.