Community takes part in memorial blood drive in honor of Franklin boy

FRANKLIN, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A memorial blood drive is being held Wednesday, in honor of a young Franklin boy who died last year after a battle with cancer. 

The drive is in memory of Keviano "Ano" Widmer, who received lifesaving blood transfusions during his treatment. 

Ano's family and the Franklin community came together Wednesday to donate, helping patients facing their own medical battles. 

During Ano's treatment, he was named an honorary firefighter by the Franklin Fire Department, where his father serves as chaplain.

“Whenever his platelets or hemoglobin were low, he needed transfusions,” Ano's father, Caleb Widmer, said. “Seeing that changed us forever.”

The blood drive runs from 1-7 p.m. at the Franklin Fire Department.

Donors will receive a complementary scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream from Ben & Jerry's, Ano's favorite flavor.