Senator Fuschillo to Sponsor Blood Drive at Sunrise Mall on August 17th

New York State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick), in conjunction with New York Blood Center, will be sponsoring a blood drive in Massapequa on Tuesday, August 17^th.

“Someone who donates one pint of blood can literally save three other lives. Blood donations are needed for surgeries, emergency medical procedures, and care of cancer patients, all of which could mean the difference between life and death for someone else. I encourage residents to participate in this program and help give the gift of life to someone else,” said Senator Fuschillo.

The August 17^th blood drive will be held at the Sunrise Mall between 2 pm and 8 pm. Donors are welcome to come anytime during the drive and will be served in the order in which they arrive; appointments are not required.

All individuals are welcome and encouraged to donate blood, as long as they:  

* Are at least 16 years old (16 year olds must present a signed copy of New York Blood Center’s parental permission form. Individuals age 76 and older can donate blood if they meet all the criteria and present a physician’s letter)

* Weigh at least 110 pounds

* Not have gotten a tattoo within the last 12 months

 * Have not already donated blood within the last 56 days

Certain medical conditions may also keep someone from donating blood. Individuals who have questions about their medical eligibility should call New York Blood Center at 1-800-688-0900.

According to New York Blood Center, demand for blood is highest in the summer, as it is the busiest time of year for emergency rooms and trauma centers. Despite summer being the time of peak demand, it also the hardest time of the year to get blood donations, making every donation received that much more valuable.

Individuals who would like more information about the blood drive should call Senator Fuschillo’s office at 516-882-0630.

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