American Red Cross Inducts Edward Harry Into “2009 Donation Hall of Fame”

December 2, 2009 (Ashley, Pa) – Edward “Ed” Harry was inducted into the 2009 Donation Hall of Fame at the American Red Cross Donor Center in Ashley, where Ed donates platelets every two weeks.  The Donation Hall of Fame is sponsored by Fenwal Blood Technologies. Harry, who donates platelets every two weeks, has been donating blood for over 21 years and has made approximately 450 blood donations, helping to save up to three lives with each donation.

“We are grateful to Ed for his steadfast commitment to helping save lives by donating platelets in our Platelet Apheresis program,” said Donna M. Morrissey, Director of Communications, American Red Cross – Northeast Division.   “His commitment to patients in need and giving back to the community is commendable and he is very deserving of admission into the Donation Hall of Fame.” 

The Platelet Apheresis program makes available important platelet products to area hospitals.  Platelets are important to the survival of many patients with clotting problems, aplastic anemia, leukemia, cancer, and to patients who will undergo organ transplants, bone marrow transplants or major surgeries.

Harry would like to share his enthusiasm with other eligible donors. “I wish I had a magic wand to make more people donate platelets,” he said.

For the last eleven years, Fenwal has partnered with the American Red Cross through the Donation Hall of Fame to honor individuals for their outstanding dedication and commitment to helping ensure that the life-saving gift of blood is available to patients in need. 

To make an appointment to donate blood or platelets and to find out additional information, please call the American Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE-(800-448-3543) or visit nepagivelife.org. To donate blood and platelets through the American Red Cross, individuals must be at least 17 years of age (16 years old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in general good health. High school students and donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.  Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate. For additional information regarding donor eligibility or where to give blood, please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit givelife.org

CONTACT:

Melissa Quinlan: 781-461-2225 | quinlanme@usa.redcross.org