Do it for Doug.
Sometimes doing a good thing needs only the simplest of reasons.
On Feb.21, family, friends and co-workers honored the memory of Doug Owens who passed away of cancer in June 2005. Owens was the Tulsa Public Schools Director of Maintenance and his wife, Dr. Peggy Owens, is principal at Greeley Elementary. AnnMarie Hayden, an administrative assistant at the TPS Maintenance, Grounds and Plant Operations Facility and former co-worker of Doug’s, says those who knew him “wanted to do something to pay tribute to him” after he passed away.
Last February, employees at the Operations Facility held their first blood drive through the American Red Cross in honor of Doug. He was a staunch supporter of numerous aid organizations, including the American Red Cross, co-workers, friends and family thought the drive would be the perfect way for Doug and his philanthropic spirit to live on.
The drive was such a success it has been made into an annual event that will continue each February.
“Doug would be proud if he could see this,” Dr. Owens says. “He was a big supporter of the American Red Cross. We feel that this event truly honors Doug and the dedication and commitment he had to the American Red Cross and helping others.”
His co-workers agree. Hayden greets donors with a smile, directing them to the donation area set up in a long hallway. In preparation for the drive, she is the contact for making donation appointments.
Sue Ann Bell, resident district manager at the Operations Facility and former co-worker, shares stories about Doug’s love for his job and the community as Dr. Owens patiently gives her donation during a lunch break.
Last year, the drive generated 884 units of blood, which is enough to save 2,650 lives. Despite the dreary forecast, bitter winds and ice-cold rain, the drive on Feb. 21 boasted 65 donors, with 18 of those being first-time donors. Everyone who donated walked away with a commemorative T-shirt that reads “I did it for Doug.”
If this year’s drive is any indication, they will continue to “do it for Doug” for many years to come.
