The Bert Kandell Blood Drive will be held at the Putnam Valley Fire House on October 19th, from 2:30 until 8:00. The Fire house is located next to Town Hall on Oscawana Lake Rd. Sponsored by the Putnam Valley Fire Department, Ambulance Corps, and the Rotary, it is hoped that at least 140 pints can be collected.
Following Hurricane Floyd, the need for blood in the region is even more urgent than usual. Blood drives are one of the casualties of natural disasters. Not only does the need for blood rise, but the resources needed to collect it aren’t available. With blood supplies only a few days ahead of demand, even a few lost days can be critical.
Blood and blood products are no longer available from Europe and this has resulted in a 30% decrease in the US blood supply. In order to make up the difference we need new donors and we need those already donating to consider donating more often.
Donating is easy, almost painless, and safe. The process takes 7 to 10 minutes, but plan on spending an hour. When you give your blood, you give to your community something special - something that saves lives - and for which there is no substitute.
To donate, you need to be in good health, be at least 17 (those over 75 need a doctor’s permission), and weigh at least 110 lbs. Bring official ID, (a driver’s license).
First time donors are most welcome! Bring a friend or family member. If they’ve been turned down before, or never tried, now is the time to try or try again. The good news is that diabetics and many cancer survivors are eligible to donate again. Call for details. Make an appointment today so we can plan for staff and for dinner-or just stop in. You’re needed now more than ever.
