Blood Drive to Honor the Life of Enon Valley Man

The annual Richard Hogue Replenishment Blood Drive will be held this week.

Hogue, who was 28, was murdered on November 16, 2013. At the time of his death, he resided in Enon Valley, worked for Nick Mars Construction as a carpenter, and was a member of the Ellwood City Eagles Club.

His mother, Debbie Murdock, described Richard as a hard-working, blue collar man who was raised with values. She said he lived to love and help others and had a heart of gold. According to Murdock, he was always there for family, friends, and neighbors.

Above all though, Murdock said, spending time with his family was most important to him. In his death, Richard left behind a son who is now 14.

She said this blood drive is an important annual event for her family.

“We know we can never bring Richard back but we have chosen to teak our pain and turn it into supporting life,” Murdock said. “A blood drive is held every year near the anniversary of Richard’s death so that a priceless gift can be given to other families in his honor: The gift of time. Whether the blood donations are used to save a life, to prolong a life, or to improve the quality of life, it helps keep Richard’s memory alive.”

The blood drive will be held Friday, November 12 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Ellwood Area Family Center’s Gym, 311 College Street, Ellwood City.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins will be accepted.

To make an appointment, visit vitalant.org, click the “log in” button. On the new window, choose donor login (previous donor) or New Donor (haven’t donated with Vitalant before), and search the group code Z0020906. You can also make an appointment by calling 412-209-7000.