The family of fallen Toledo Police Detective Keith Dressel is organizing a blood drive set for Feb. 21 in his memory. Dressel was a frequent blood donor, said his mother Larraine Dressel.
“He was that kind of a guy. That’s why he was a cop. He was always taking care of others, serving, protecting, and giving blood was one way of saving lives,” she said.
Last year was the first year the Dressels organized a blood drive. About 50 people came out, Larraine said.
2012 was also Larraine’s and her husband’s first time donating blood, she added.
“I was surprised. It’s painless and it really doesn’t take any time at all,” she said.
The drive also serves to honor Dressel’s memory. Feb. 21 marks the sixth anniversary of his death. He was shot while trying to stop a drug deal in 2007.
Larraine said events like the drive are about, “keeping people aware of cops and what they do, how they sometimes give the ultimate sacrifice.”
Diane Miscannon is the daughter of TPD Officer William Miscannon, who was shot and killed during a riot on Sept. 18, 1970. She and the Dressels have grown close and often work together on events.
“If Keith was anything like his parents, he was an awesome guy,” Miscannon said. “They’re the most giving people you’ve ever met.”
“[Keith’s] still giving after his passing and not many people are able to do that,” she added.
The Dressels and Miscannons also help put on the annual Dressel Ride, set for July, and support the Officer William Miscannon Scholarship Fund together. A May 16 dinner is also in the works at Hooters on Monroe Street, where diners can spend $15 for all you can eat.
The blood drive is set for 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Toledo Police Patrolman’s Association, 1947 Franklin Ave., Toledo.
— Brigitta Burks
