In a bid to bolster blood donations during the challenging summer months, New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe) has forged an exciting collaboration with three-time Olympian and World Champion Elizabeth Beisel.
The partnership was formally unveiled during Beisel’s appearance at NYBC’s Grand Central Blood Drive in New York City on May 9, 2024, in conjunction with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
Elizabeth Beisel, renowned for her accomplishments in swimming and now a prominent commentator for the upcoming Paris games, spoke passionately about her personal connection to blood donation. “Before my father’s courageous battle with cancer, he selflessly donated over 6 gallons of blood,” shared Beisel. “His dedication has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I’m proud to honor his legacy by joining forces with NYBCe to make a profound impact on countless lives.”
As anticipation builds for the Paris games, where Beisel will be providing commentary, she is issuing a challenge to young and first-time donors. Historically, donors aged 16-24 constituted 25% of the nation’s blood supply; today, this group accounts for only about 10%. Beisel urges youth to roll up their sleeves this summer and become champions for blood donation.
“Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center Enterprises, emphasized the critical need for sustained support. “Blood is a lifeline for patients in our community, and it’s imperative that young people make donating a lifelong habit for the future stability of our blood supply,” noted Cefarelli.
Those interested in donating can give blood every 56 days, up to 6 times a year. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently eased several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To check current guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900.
To schedule a donation at a nearby blood drive, individuals can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org. If unable to donate blood, support NYBC’s mission by texting ‘NYBC’ to ‘20222’ to contribute $25.
About New York Blood Center Enterprises
Established in 1964, NYBCe commemorates 60 years of groundbreaking research and impactful services. As one of the world’s largest nonprofit, independent community blood centers, NYBCe, in collaboration with partner organizations like Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD), Community Blood Center of Kansas City (CBC), and others, collects approximately 4,000 units of blood products daily, serving communities across the tri-state area and beyond. NYBCe’s Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute has achieved significant milestones in blood-purification technology, including the pioneering of the Hepatitis B vaccine.
For more information, visit nybc.org
Photo credit: 1) Elizabeth Beisel. NYCe. 2) NYCe.
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