FOX 11's Kyle Kraska, American Red Cross hold Celebration of Heroes Blood Drive

SANTA MONICA, Calif. - Just one donation can save up to three lives. FOX 11's Kyle Kraska and the American Red Cross teamed up to hold the Celebration of Heroes Blood Drive Thursday.

The blood drive took places at the Santa Monica Catholic Church. The event was held in honor of first responders and medical professionals who saved Kraska's life.

"We are incredibly grateful to be partnering with Kyle Kraska on the Celebration of Heroes Blood Drive honoring first responders and blood donors who help save lives each and every day," Jay Winkenbach, American Red Cross Regional Blood Services Executive said. "Summer months can be a challenging time to maintain a sufficient blood supply. We invite Angelenos to join us and roll up a sleeve for this first Celebration of Heroes Blood Drive in Santa Monica."

KYLE'S STORY

Back in 2015, Kyle Kraska was pulling out of his driveway as he was on his way to work. While in his car, 20 bullets were fired from a 9mm handgun, with six of them hitting Kraska. He spent a week in coma and needed 14 units of blood to stay alive. 

The miracle rescue and response from first responders, doctors and nurses inspired Kraska to launch KK's Heroes and the Celebration of Heroes Blood Drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. 

Kraska shares his story in hopes of inspiring others to donate blood.

KAMILA'S STORY

In addition to Kraska's personal experience, he also shares the story of Kamila Saradpon, a little girl born with a rare blood disorder thalassemia. Kamila's condition requires her to undergo blood transfusions every three weeks. By the age of seven, the little girl has endured more than 100 blood transfusions and the need will never stop.