TOLEDO, Ohio — Just over a week ago, the blighted Rosemary Apartments in north Toledo finally came down.
It was that vacant building, which stood at the corner of N. Detroit Ave. and Phillips Ave., where 16-year-old Joshua Sorrell fell five stories to his death while exploring the abandoned property with friends in June of 2016.
For the past 6 years, the family has held a blood drive every year in Joshua's memory.
At this year's event, the family said they are feeling some relief. The place which has haunted them for years, reminding them of their son's death, has been torn down, lifting a weight off their chests.
They said they cannot bring back their son, but the 400 pints of blood that has been collected over the years in his honor is a silver-lining.
On Saturday, the effort continued at Fairgreen Presbyterian Church.
The drive started in 2016 with the help of family friends, a month after Joshua's death. Since then they have since partnered with The Red Cross to hold blood drives twice a year.
Kerri Sorrell, Joshua's mother, said he was a member of the Red Cross Club at Whitmer High School where he donated his own blood on several occasions.
"It just seemed to make sense. There was nothing to do to bring Joshua back but there was something positive we could make happen," said Sorrell.
Over the years, the family has formed relationships with donors and volunteers who have continued to take part in the effort year after year.
"A lot of regular Red Cross staff come out, so we've become like family and friends to them too, so it's awesome to get everyone together," said Joshua's sister Sarah Sorrell.
Tiffany Smith is one of those people who has been there from the start. She was was once a Red Cross employee but is now a supporter.
"They're amazing people. I don't work for the Red Cross anymore, but I still make sure that I come out and donate on their drives to celebrate Josh," said Smith.
Jessica Hayton started with the Red Cross two years ago. The Sorrell's event was also the first blood drive she trained at.
"I love being able to keep his memory alive with them and being a part of the process with them making sure the day runs smoothly is just very important," said Hayton.
The family said they will continue to hold the blood drives as long as they are able to. The next one is planned for July 22 this year.
The Red Cross says blood donations are always needed to make sure the blood supply is there to help people in tragic events.
Click here to find a blood drive near you.
If you are unable to give, they want you to know you can volunteer instead.