Contact: Michael Fraser, (518) 455-3751/ (518) 859-8518
Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C-Canandaigua) is again partnering with the American Red Cross to sponsor a summertime blood drive on Tuesday, July 7, at the Canandaigua Inn on the Lake located at 770 South Main Street in Canandaigua. It will run from 1:30 to 7 p.m. Those who wish to donate may call 1-800-RED-CROSS to schedule an appointment or simply walk in at any time during the blood drive.
"I am proud to partner with the Red Cross to sponsor and promote this lifesaving event," said Leader Kolb. "With the blood they collect each year, potentially thousands of lives will be saved. I encourage all eligible donors to take the time to help keep hospital blood supplies full, especially during the slower summer season. We need a lot of blood, and only you can provide it. Together, we can help ensure the well-being of our neighbors and communities."
According to the Red Cross, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds and more than 15,000 blood donations are needed every day. The Red Cross supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood supply and helps stock the shelves of 2,600 hospitals and infusion centers across the country. From start to finish, the donation process only takes a little more than an hour.
"Giving blood is a simple act that can touch many lives," said Cara Leyna Noble, External Communications Manager for the Red Cross New York-Penn Blood Services Region. "Donors are urged to give blood to help prevent a summer shortage in donations. The Red Cross is thankful for the many dedicated donors in the area and for the continued support of Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb."
Blood viability expires in 42 days, so it is vital to constantly replenish the supply. Those who are interested can give blood every 56 days, according to the Red Cross. Please encourage a family member to give the "Gift of Life" as well. Anyone 17 years or older, weighing at least 110 pounds, who hasn't donated since May 7, and is in good health is eligible to donate. In New York State, 16-year-olds may donate blood provided they bring an original signed New York State Informed Parental Consent form to the blood drive. The form can be found at the Donate Blood Now Web site.