Hendrick Hudson Free Library will host a blood donation drive on Wednesday, May 21, organized by the New York Blood Center (NYBC). It will begin at 11 a.m. and continue through 5 p.m. in the Community Room.
The drive, coordinated by Elise Landesberg, is open to the general public. However, pre-registration and appointment selection are required. The New York Blood Center offers two donation options: whole blood donation and automated red blood cell donation. The latter requires additional time and specific eligibility criteria.
Those interested in participating must be in good health, over the age of 17, weigh more than 110 pounds, and present a valid photo ID. Additionally, the use of medications such as antibiotics or aspirin (a blood thinner), recent tattoos, travel, surgeries, or vaccinations may be temporary restrictions, so potential donors are encouraged to consult the organizers with any questions.
This event is part of a series of regular campaigns the NYBC holds in communities throughout New York. In past years, the library has hosted several of these events.
Donations collected at these drives are processed and distributed to hospitals across the region. Each unit of blood can be separated into components that may help up to three different patients. That may include individuals living with chronic illnesses, cancer patients, surgical patients, or accident victims.
The New York Blood Center, founded in 1964, is one of the largest independent, community-based blood collection organizations in the country. It operates under the supervision of the New York State Department of Health and is a nonprofit organization that has served more than 75 million people across 17 states.
Those interested in taking part in the drive may schedule their appointment online through the NYBC donor portal. Donors are advised to arrive well-fed and properly hydrated.
