Annual Red, White and You Blood Drive Set fot Sept. 11
By SHELLEY HANSON
Staff Writer
WHEELING – Most people remember where they were on Sept. 11, 2001 – the day the United States was attacked by terrorists.
But one local church wants that day to also have a positive note by allowing people to donate a pint of blood – enough to save three lives, according to the American Red Cross.
Vance Memorial Presbyterian Church’s, 905 National Road, Wheeling, third annual Red, White and You Blood Drive is slated from noon to 6 p.m. Sept. 11.
Church member Bettie Steele said the drive has become a tradition for some people who looking for a way to commemorate the day.
“We liked the idea of keeping it in front of people and remembering what happened that day, as well help providing blood for a need that is so great. The American Red Cross is at an urgent place again. There is a major need for blood in the area,” Steele said.
The drive’s goal is 60 units, or pints, of blood.
“People feel good about doing something positive that day,” church deacon Carol Myers said.
Phyllis Riccadonna, American Red Cross donor recruitment representative, said because of the urgent need for blood every drop counts.
“There is no replacement for blood,” Riccadonna said.
“This is an extremely important drive.”
After people donate during the drive, a canteen area will be available where people can eat snacks, homemade cookies and beverages.
In addition to Vance, other Wheeling-area churches participating include Vineyard, First Baptist, First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, Church of Christ, Christ United Methodist, Edgewood Lutheran, St. Michael’s, Temple Shalom, Upper Ohio Valley Presbytery, First Presbyterian, Stone Memorial Presbyterian, Warwood Presbyterian, Ohio Valley Christian Center and Covenant Community Church. Several schools and civic organizations also are taking part in the drive.