Local briefs

American Red Cross blood drive planned in August

The American Red Cross will host a blood drive in Crow Wing County in August.

Area blood drives are:

1-6 p.m., Aug. 9, American Legion, 232 Fourth St., Ironton.

noon to 6 p.m., Aug. 11, American Legion, 4435 Main St., Pequot Lakes.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 12, American Legion, 4435 Main St., Pequot Lakes.

Eligible blood donors may give blood every 56 days. Through October, blood donors may register for a chance to win a 2011 Ford Fiesta through Red Cross Racing, more information is online at redcrossracing.com.

The American Red Cross reports summer months may take regular donors away on trips and provides an opportunity for new donors or those who haven't donated recently. All blood types are needed. Donors should bring a donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification. Those age 17 or older, who weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health may be eligible to donate. Those who are younger may have additional requirements.

For more information or to make an appointment, call (800) GIVE-LIFE or (800)448-3543 or go online to redcrossblood.org.

Cancer Support Network spiritual healing meeting set Monday

CROSSLAKE - The Cancer Support Network will meet in Crosslake at 3:30 p.m. Monday at the Crosslake Lutheran Church in the Fireside Room.

Pastor Mark Anderson, Crosslake Lutheran Church, and Gail Smith, parish nurse, will present their experience of working with cancer patients, survivors and their families on their journey living with cancer.

Anderson served at Crosslake Lutheran for more than 10 years. Prior to his service at Crosslake, he served First Lutheran Church in Brainerd. Smith has a bachelor's degree in nursing and currently serves as the Crosslake Lutheran Church parish nurse and works in the emergency room and Intensive Care Unit at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in Crosby.

This network is for men and women who have lived with cancer or are living with cancer now. Family members or close friends who support cancer patients are invited.