The American Red Cross is holding a special blood drive in memory of Olean resident Rose Pappas on Monday, February 13 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Olean Elks Lodge at 209 West State Street in Olean N.Y. The blood drive is being sponsored by the Rose Pappas Foundation Fund, which was founded by Betty Pappas in memory of her sister. “My sister, Rosie, was very talented, but never wanted to draw attention to it. I set up this foundation to serve the purpose that she would have wanted it to—to help people in need.” Rosie passed away 11 years ago from Multiple Myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow. During her illness, she required regular platelet transfusions.
Betty is also a blood transfusion recipient. About a year and a half ago, Betty had major surgery that required her to also receive blood transfusions. When asked why she chose to sponsor an American Red Cross Blood Drive, Betty responded, “Prior to my surgery, I had thought about sponsoring a blood drive. I remember thinking, I wanted to do it before and I never went through with it,” stated Betty. “I am finally doing what I set out to do.”
Donating blood is a simple act that helps save lives. Blood is an essential component for patient care in area hospitals, and the only source of blood is a healthy, volunteer blood donor Due to hectic holiday schedules, busy travel plans and inclement weather in the Northeast, blood donations can decline during this time of year. It is the perfect time of year to show your support and give back to the Olean community, as American Red Cross now serves as primary supplier of blood products and services to Olean General Hospital.
During the month of February, all presenting donors are eligible for a chance to keep cozy in an American Red Cross Fleece Jacket. One fleece jacket will be raffled off every day for the entire month. In addition, all donors at this drive will be entered in a drawing for one of three Valentine’s Day prize packages including a $50 Chamber of Commerce gift certificate toward a Valentine’s Day dinner and a dozen roses delivered to the person of your choice.*
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