Injured Orange County Firefighters To Benefit From Blood Drive

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA — A blood drive is planned for Thursday at OC Global Medical Center in Santa Ana for two firefighters critically injured in the Silverado Fire.

In late October, two Orange County Fire Authority firefighters, Dylan Van Iwaarden and Phi Le, were critically injured in the Silverado Fire. They each suffered second- and third-degree burns in the blaze, which was driven by powerful Santa Ana winds.

Both firefighters remain in critical condition this week while their brothers and sisters in the Orange County Fire Authority plan the blood drive to support them.

According to OCFA Capt. Daniel Yeh, both Iwaarden and Le are members of the Santiago Hand Crew, based out of Station 18 in Modjeska Canyon. The Santiago crew has been at most major incidents across the southland in the busy 2020 fire season. That crew is currently off work amid the investigation into the serious accident that led to the firefighters' injuries.

"We're very appreciative to our community members who are interested in donating blood," said OCFA Capt. Daniel Yeh. "This is going to help the recovery efforts of Dylan and Phi, but also others" who may be in need of blood during the critical blood shortage amid coronavirus.

If you go to the blood drive:

Organizers encourage donors to make an appointment because of COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, but walk-ins will be welcomed.

To make an appointment call 800-879-4484. The blood drive will begin at 8 a.m.