On Tuesday, February 24, New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald visited New York Blood Center’s (NYBC) Fishkill Donor Center to bring attention to the urgent need for blood donors following the latest winter storm. Dr. McDonald donated blood himself, while his team filmed the process to educate the public and encourage others to step up.
“There’s a blood shortage in New York State right now,” said Commissioner McDonald. “We had some big storms, I’m sure everybody noticed. When there’s big storms, people aren’t going out to donate blood. Because people aren’t going out to donate blood, there’s a shortage. Remember: hospitals still need the blood.”
NYBC lost nearly 3,000 donations following February’s powerful blizzard, significantly impacting the region’s blood supply. NYBC encourages all eligible donors to make a donation at a donor center or blood drive as soon as possible. Blood is perishable, and recovering from the significant losses caused by this storm will require strong donor participation over the coming weeks.
“Weather events are a powerful reminder that the need for blood doesn’t take a holiday,” said Jeannie Mascolino, Vice President, Blood Operations at New York Blood Center. “During the winter months, donations decline while patient needs remain steady, and that gap can put lives at risk. We’re incredibly grateful to our partners in city and state government and to community leaders like Dr. McDonald for standing with us amid a blood shortage and setting a wonderful example for all New Yorkers.”
“Donate to help others,” said Commissioner McDonald. “Donate because of a loved one. Maybe donate for the cookies. It’s really up to you.”
Watch Dr. McDonald’s blood donation experience at NYBC’s Fishkill Donor Center here:
