Donors from across the region rolled up their sleeves to support patients in need, continuing a yearly tradition organized by 6abc in partnership with the American Red Cross.
PHILADELPHIA --, an effort aimed at helping the American Red Cross rebuild its blood supply after a challenging winter season for donations. Donors from across the region rolled up their sleeves to support patients in need, continuing a yearly tradition organized by 6abc in partnership with the American Red Cross.
Eric Jones of Germantown said his motivation came from watching his father donate years ago.Others were giving it another try after past setbacks. Kevin Lewis of Overbrook Farms said he was encouraged to return decades after an unsuccessful first attempt. "Many years ago, it clotted, so I never came back. But my wife encouraged me to try it again, and it looks like it's successful," Lewis said. This year's blood drive is operating at five locations - three in Pennsylvania and two in New Jersey. Donors received snacks, 6abc stickers and even high fives from Fred Cross, the Red Cross canine mascot. Red Cross officials said the timing of the drive is especially important with the busy summer season approaching. "We're still trying to regroup from those winter storms and trying to build that nice, good supply," said Jennifer Graham, CEO of the American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania. "Springtime, summertime is coming up. Twenty percent of our blood collections come from high school and college students. When they're out for the summer, we need people to step up even more." In Collingswood, some donors opted for power red donations, which collect two units of red blood cells in a single appointment. Donna Roccia of Mount Ephrem explained the process. "You take twice as much of the red blood as you would in a normal donation, but you get all the other stuff back again," Roccia said.Action News anchor Matt O'Donnell donated blood, and former 6abc general manager Bernie Prazenica also returned to participate. "It's great to donate. It's easy, and it feels like you're making a difference. I'm happy to be here, and I'm happy that 6abc is continuing this really wonderful tradition," Prazenica said. The blood drive runs until 7 p.m. Those who were unable to donate can still make an appointment for a future date, as blood donations remain critically needed heading into the warmer months.
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