Saturday marks 3 years since Lincoln Police Investigator Mario Herrera was shot in the line of duty on 8/26/2020. He passed away 12 days later to his injuries on 9/7/2020.
During that time, Officer Herrera was receiving multiple blood, plasma, and palette transfusions. His fellow officers at the Lincoln Police Department began looking for any way they could help. Kari Lundeen with the Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) said when she picked up the phone, ” We said, just tell people to come in and donate blood.”
This community tragedy gave rise to The 12 Days of Hope Blood Drive, in honor of the 12 days Officer Herrera fought for his life in the hospital.
The NCBB is partnering with local fire and police departments again this year, to help save lives.
The 12 Days of Hope Blood Drive kicks off for Lincoln residents this Monday, with a public blood drive at LFR Station #15. The next public drive, on the last day of the 12 day drive, will be September 7th at the Lincoln Police department. An additional blood drive will be held tomorrow, Saturday, in Omaha.
Lundeen said the best way to donate is to schedule an appointment, either online or by phone. Information on NCBB and upcoming drive details are listed below.
12 Days of Hope in Memory of Officer Mario Herrera – Lincoln Fire & Rescue Station #15
- Monday – August 28, 2023
- 9:00-2:00pm
Lincoln Police Department
- Thursday – September 7, 2023
- 9:00-4:00pm
C.O.P.S Nebraska Chapter (Omaha)
- Saturday – August 26, 2023
- 9:00-12:30pm