Local EMS Providers Urge Blood Donations as Constant Need Continues Across the Hudson Valley

Every day, trauma victims, surgical patients, cancer patients and countless others rely on donated blood to survive. Yet although more than 60 percent of New Yorkers are eligible to donate blood, only about two percent do, creating a constant need for volunteer donors.

To help address that need, Rockland Paramedic Services (RPS) is partnering with the New York Blood Center (NYBC) to host a community blood drive on Thursday, August 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at RPS headquarters, located at 17 Squadron Boulevard, Suite 410, New City. Community members are encouraged to register in advance at nybc.org/sponsor using sponsor code 73494.

Rockland Paramedic Services responds to medical emergencies every day where blood transfusions often become essential to patient survival. Whether treating victims of serious motor vehicle crashes, medical emergencies, traumatic injuries or other life-threatening conditions, RPS paramedics understand firsthand how critical an adequate blood supply is once patients reach the hospital.

"Every day, our paramedics see how lifesaving donated blood can be," said Tim Egan, Executive Director of Rockland Paramedic Services. "When someone experiences severe trauma, major blood loss or another life-threatening medical emergency, blood products are often a critical part of their treatment. Hosting this blood drive allows us to continue serving our community in another meaningful way, and we encourage everyone who is eligible to make an appointment and donate."

Unlike many medical treatments, blood cannot be manufactured. It can only come from volunteer donors. Because red blood cells, platelets and plasma each have limited shelf lives, hospitals depend on generous community members who donate regularly to ensure blood is available whenever emergencies arise. And one blood donation can help save up to three lives, making every appointment an opportunity to have a meaningful impact on patients throughout the region.

As an added thank-you, the blood drive is part of the New York Blood Center's “Blood for a Brew” campaign. Eligible donors will receive a voucher after donating that can be redeemed for a

complimentary beverage at a participating brewery’s, restaurants, or coffee shops. A QR code on the voucher provides access to the most up-to-date list of participating locations.

Donors should eat a healthy meal, stay well hydrated and bring a valid photo ID before donating. Individuals who are unable to attend the August 6 blood drive can still support Rockland Paramedic Services' efforts by donating at a participating New York Blood Center donor center within one week of the event and using the Rockland Paramedic Services sponsor code when completing their health questionnaire, ensuring their donation is credited toward the drive.

Appointments can be scheduled at nybc.org/sponsor using sponsor code 73494. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.

About Rockland Paramedic Services

Rockland Paramedic Services is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Advanced Life Support Service. Through the EMS 911 system, they respond with the volunteer ambulance corps to all medical emergencies. Rockland Paramedic Services has made a firm commitment to staff to be the best trained and qualified paramedics in the Hudson Valley. RPS has concentrated its efforts toward providing the latest state-of-the-art equipment and lifesaving medical techniques available. To find out more, visit www.rocklandparamedics.org, call 845-627-8612, or email info@rocklandparamedics.org.