After Vinny Cusumano was diagnosed with cancer at 10 years old, his family founded Vinny’s Army, an organization that helps pediatric cancer patients and their families
New York Blood Center (NYBC) and Vinny’s Army joined forces to host their third annual successful blood drive on Saturday, September 20, at the Brian Moore Athletic Facility and Community Center in Massapequa, collecting 131 units of blood with the potential to impact almost 400 lives. The blood drive was held in honor of Vinny Cusumano, a courageous 10-year-old boy and the inspiration behind Vinny’s Army, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children diagnosed with cancer and their families.
Vinny was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer in October 2022. He received over 30 donations of blood and platelets through transfusions during the intense chemotherapy and radiation treatments that were needed to save his life. Vinny’s Army works to support children diagnosed with cancer and their families by providing unconditional love and support to ensure no family faces this battle alone.
“We have been partnering with NYBC since the beginning of our drives. What an incredible organization to work with,” said Valerie Cusumano, Vinny’s mother. “They truly make us feel like family—helping to share Vinny’s story to highlight the importance of blood donations, to making sure every single one of our drives is a success. We are so grateful for their partnership and the impact we are making together.”
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and 25% of the blood supply is used by patients battling cancer. Children battling cancer depend on blood transfusions as part of their treatment. From managing the side effects of chemotherapy to supporting recovery after procedures, donated blood is often essential for young patients fighting for their lives. Vinny’s Army raises awareness throughout the year and urges the community to donate blood to support pediatric cancer patients like Vinny, who may require transfusions for their treatment.
For more of Vinny’s story, visit: Vinny’s Comeback: The Power of Blood Donations and Vinnysarmy.com.
To donate in honor of Vinny anytime at any NYBC Donor Center, use the Vinny’s Army code 71909.