EMPORIUM — Olkosky-Jessop American Legion Post 194 in Emporium hosted the American Red Cross Bloodmobile on Aug. 13, garnishing 36 pints.
Two donors reached milestones: Gary Boden reached 15 gallons, and Dennis Grasser reached 11 gallons. Double donors were Dennis Grasser, Marsha Patros, Kirk Bainey and Doug Tyger, who was passing through Emporium on his way to Kersey.
The first-time donor was Derek Duman, and Michelle Clark and Tawnie Williams both came back to donate after many years.
Three new crew members from Buffalo, N.Y., provided assistance: Jenelle Gurbacki, Christie Buzzell and Sean Lanighan. They worked with long-time crew members Glenn Kraebel and Darryl Sadkowski. Local volunteers were Paul Richards, Barry Sarick, Mick Fapore and Mary Greif.
Donating blood is said to be “A Gift of Life.” Whether community members have a rare blood type, a universal blood type or anything in between, donations are needed and appreciated.
The next blood drive in Emporium will be from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 15. To make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Organizers ask that donors make an appointment because of the need to still social distance, and walk-ins can only be taken on a limited basis depending on the number of crew members.
