Former T.O. teacher needs blood

Several blood drives have been organized this month for a local teacher struggling at Los Robles Hospital.

Simi Valley resident Skogi Baker, 64, who retired in 2004 after teaching in Conejo Valley Unified School District for 36 years, is recovering from acute pancreatitis with many complications. She is currently in the intensive care unit at the hospital.

Baker was at Manzanita, Aspen and Weathersfield elementary schools for most of her career, teaching kindergarten through eighth grade at various times.

The main blood drive is Wed., June 25 from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Los Robles Greens.

Blood donations will also be accepted on Baker's behalf at a Thousand Oaks Rotary drive at Los Robles Greens on Thurs., June 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and at Whole Foods Market in Thousand Oaks on Sat., June 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"Skogi is still in ICU, but is making progress each day toward recovery," said Baker's husband, Larry. "Her family and friends greatly appreciate the outpouring of love they have experienced during this difficult time."

Skogi and Larry live in Simi Valley, where they've always been involved in youth programs. Skogi has volunteered with the Girl Scouts as a leader and troop founder. Larry is active in Rotary and is both a commissioner and leader of Boy Scout Troop 787.

"Skogi has a way of making everyone she meets feel special and cared about," Larry said.

Los Robles Greens Golf Course is at 299 S. Moorpark Road. Whole Foods is at 740 N. Moorpark Road.

To make an appointment or to find out about other locations, visit www.bloodhero.com or call (800) 715-3699. - Joann Groff