EMPORIUM — An American Red Cross blood drive was held at the Cameron County Vets Club on April 9.
Organizers were able to garnish 36 pints for the day.
Arnie Hayes reached a big milestone of 21 gallons, which is 168 pints. Four others hit milestones, also: Kirk Bainey, 15 gallons; Mark Abriatis, 7 gallons; Phil Jones, 5 gallons; and Brock Belkowski, 2 gallons.
It was a big day for doubles with six of them. Giving plasma were Teresa Genaux, Frank Armanini, Peggy Letterman, Mark Abriatis, Jeff Blair and Brock Belkowski.
The blood drive also had seven first-time donors here in Emporium: Tayna Bates, Nicole Huggler, Jeff Blair, Janet Gore, Sheri Foltz, Bonnie Smith and Brian Harmon.
The Buffalo team members were Brian Kavanagh, Darryl Sadkowski, Braylene McMillon and Rachel Epolito. Local volunteers were Penny Cherry, Dennis McCulla and Bill Moscato, who set up the day before. On the day of the drive, local volunteers were Barry Sarick, Paul Richards, Mick Fapore and Mary Greif.
Donating blood is said to be “A Gift of Life.” Organizers explained that there is always a great need for blood, especially during emergencies, which is why this blood drive was so important to hold during these unusual times.
The next Blood Drive in Emporium will be from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. June 11. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or log on at www.redcross.org to make an appointment.
