News Release - Mayor Warren Encourages Residents to Give Blood at the Fourth Annual Cecil McClary Blood Drive

City of Rochester

News Release


(Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2015) — In loving memory of her grandfather, Cecil McClary, Mayor Lovely Warren is encouraging the Rochester community to roll up a sleeve and give blood on Saturday, September 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Keeler Park Apartments on Seneca Manor Drive, across from Wal-Mart on Hudson Avenue. WDKX will broadcast live from 10 a.m. to noon.

Cecil McClary passed away in January 2014, after suffering a stroke. Mayor Warren learned the importance of giving blood after her grandfather required a blood transfusion when he was critically wounded by gunfire while working at Wegmans on West Avenue in 1984.

“Without a blood transfusion, he would not have survived,” said Mayor Lovely Warren. “I applaud all individuals who choose to give blood and encourage everyone to join me on Saturday, September 19 to remember my grandfather in a special way, because you too can help save a life.”

The fourth annual Cecil McClary blood drive is helping raise awareness about sickle cell disease, which affects 100,000 people in the U.S. Sickle cell disease causes red blood cells to form an abnormal crescent shape and blood transfusions are an important part of the treatment. To best meet the needs of all patients, it is vitally important that the community blood supply reflect the diversity of the U.S. population.

All eligible donors are encouraged to roll up a sleeve and help maintain an adequate blood supply for hospital patients. Approximately every two seconds, someone needs blood. One blood donation can help save up to three lives and it only takes about an hour of your time. Walk-ins are welcome, but eligible donors are asked to make an appointment by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting redcrossblood.org.

How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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News Media: For more information, contact Press Officer Jessica Alaimo at 428-7135.