LAST CHANCE: Ossining Blood Drive

The following news release is from Phelps Hospital:

Center will hold a blood drive on Monday, May 14 from 10 am to 3 pm in the Budarz Theater at Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Avenue in Ossining.  All blood donations will be used for Phelps patients.

Carol Stanley, the supervisor of blood donor services at Phelps, likes to remind the public that “Many people don’t realize that only 5% of the population contributes 100% of the national blood supply.  Also, one out of 10 people entering the hospital needs blood, so donations are critical.”

Blood donations are particularly critical during the summer months because many regular blood donors are away on vacation, says Ms. Stanley.

It is important for people to understand that one unit of blood is good for only 42 days, so new blood donations are needed regularly. The average adult has 10-12 pints, so donating one pint is a proverbial ‘drop in the bucket.’

“There is no substitute for human blood.  If more people would donate blood twice or even once a year, that would help provide an adequate supply to support the community,” says Ms. Stanley, who offers this helpful hint: “Schedule a time to donate when you turn your clock forward in the spring and when you turn your clock back in the fall!”

People interested in donating blood are asked to have something to eat and drink prior to donating and to bring a photo ID. To schedule an appointment at the Ossining Library event, contact James Trapasso at 914-941-2416 ext. 327 or email jtrapasso@wlsmail.org.  Those wishing to donate at other times can always schedule an appointment at Phelps by calling Carol Stanley at
914-366-3916.