By Kathryn Carse Staten Island Advance
In honor of those who were killed during the World Trade Center attacks of 1993 and 2001, the Borough President’s office is coordinating its annual 9/11 Blood Donor Drive.
The goal is to reach 275 pints of blood — one for each Staten Island victim lost, but every year the goal is met and surpassed. To be a part of the effort, visit one of the many sites where blood will be collected through September 11. (See our events page for a full listing.)
The drive is being conducted through the New York Blood Center. About 2,000 pints of blood are needed per day to maintain a sufficient blood supply for patients in the New York/New Jersey that require a lifesaving transfusion, according to the center’s website. Those patients include newborns, those treated for cancer, accidents, burns, surgery, and those suffering from sickle cell disease or thalassemia.
Making a blood donation is nothing less than lifesaving.
For those donating on Wednesday at Moe’s Southwest Grill an extra reward is provided. At its New Dorp location, 2397 Hylan Blvd., blood donors will receive a coupon to redeem for a free entrée.
9/11 Blood Donor Drive
Donors must be at least 16 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, bring photo identification and eat or drink something before donating.
