Community Blood Drive Hailed as a 'Success'

Last week's partnership between Bridgewater Township Mayor Dan Hayes and the Somerset Medical Center Blood Donor Program successfully collected 11 pints of donated blood—a crucial addition to the area's dwindling supply.

The Oct. 22 "Super Community Blood Drive" was called a success by the Somerset Medical Center—especially since these donations have the potential to deliver life-saving treatment to as many as 22 patients at the Somerset Medical Center. Mayor Hayes extended a sincere thank you to all township residents and employees for their support in the donation program and in making the community blood drive a success. 

The township plans to continue its partnership with the Somerset Medical Center Blood Donor Program with additional blood drives to be promoted at the Bridgewater Municipal Complex in 2014.

Also, blood drive participants were eligible to be entered into a lottery to win a pair of tickets to the 2014 Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium.

Township residents with an interest in the blood donor program are encouraged to contact the Somerset Medical Center for additional information. The blood donation process is safe, efficient and takes approximately 45 minutes. Donors must be at least 17 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs. (Donors who are 16 may donate with parental consent and need to weigh at least 120 lbs.). For further information please contact the Somerset Medical Center Blood Donor Program at (908) 685-2926. 

The number one reason people say they donate blood is the “help others.” If all blood donors gave three times a year, blood shortages would be a rare event.