SAMUT SAKHON — 1 May 2026, A family is urgently appealing for rare blood donations ahead of a life-saving heart operation scheduled later this month at Banphaeo General Hospital.
Geno L. Eckley is due to undergo a triple bypass surgery on 19 May, but the procedure cannot proceed without sufficient supplies of A-negative (A−) or O-negative (O−) blood, according to his family. Both blood types are considered rare, particularly in Thailand, making the search for compatible donors more challenging.
His daughter, Areya Eckley, said the family is reaching out to English-speaking communities and expatriates across the country, where these blood types are statistically more common.
“This is a life-saving operation, and the blood donations are absolutely critical,” she said in a message shared with media outlets.
Eckley, described by his family as a devoted husband and father of three, is currently preparing for surgery as doctors await confirmation that adequate blood supplies are secured.
How to donate
Eligible donors with A− or O− blood can donate directly at Banphaeo General Hospital, or through the Thai Red Cross Society at designated centres in Bangkok and Hua Hin.
Donors must provide the following details to ensure the blood is correctly allocated:
- Patient Name: Geno L. Eckley
- Patient Number: 017424-69
Donation locations and contacts:
- Banphaeo General Hospital (Samut Sakhon)
Tel: 034 419 555 ext. 9030 or 9031 (13:00–15:00) - Thai Red Cross (Bangkok)
Tel: 02 263 9600 - Thai Red Cross (Hua Hin)
Tel: 032 512 370
The family says that even a single donation could make a crucial difference in ensuring the surgery can go ahead as planned.
Further updates are expected as the surgery date approaches.
