Avery Dalrymple is pictured.

YOUNGSVILLE — A community blood drive, scheduled for Friday at the Youngsville Free Methodist Church, is bringing attention to the life-saving impact of blood donation, inspired by the recovery of a local teenager after a winter accident.

Seventeen-year-old Avery Dalrymple was seriously injured in a car accident on Jan. 21 during hazardous road conditions. She was rushed to Warren General Hospital and later transferred to UPMC Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh, where doctors performed multiple emergency surgeries. During her treatment, Dalrymple required 13 units of blood. Doctors said this resource was essential to keeping her alive.

Now recovering and in stable condition, Dalrymple’s story has motivated the community to organize and host a Heart to Heart blood drive to help future patients.

Organizers say the event is intended not only to support Dalrymple’s recovery, but also to highlight how quickly blood supplies can be depleted and how dependent hospitals are on regular donors.

“Blood donation saves lives every single day,” organizers said. “Avery’s story is a powerful reminder of how important it is to donate regularly so blood is available when someone’s life depends on it.”

The blood drive will run from 1 to 6 p.m. Friday at 179 Davis St. in Youngsville. Walk-ins are welcome, though donors are encouraged to schedule appointments ahead of time to minimize wait times.

Eligible donors must be in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental consent. A photo ID is required, and donors are advised to eat beforehand and stay hydrated.

Those interested in donating or seeking additional information can contact mobile drive coordinator lead Raven Edinger at 814-596-3395 or through email at raven.edinger@fourhearts.org.