Firefighters help save lives in a different way

Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center recently presented the West Islip Fire Department (WIFD) with its Community Service Award for host- ing a blood drive to help address the critical blood shortage on Long Island.

The hospital contacted local fire departments asking for their assistance to assure a continuous supply of blood to Good Samaritan and other hospitals across Long Island. The WIFD rose to the challenge and scheduled a drive immediately. The first drive was such a success that another drive has been scheduled for December 19.

Long Island is in critical need of blood donors. Each pint of blood can save up to five lives. Hospitals on Long Island require more than 800 pints each day to meet the needs of the community. Eligible donors must be at least 16-years-old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and in generally good health.

For information on donating blood, contact Long Island Blood Services at 1-800-933-BLOOD or visit www.nybloodcenter.org. To find out about upcoming blood drives at Good Samaritan, call 631-376- 4444.

Shown, left to right, are WIFD's EMS Chief John McAuley, Good Samaritan's Vice President of Administration Charlie Bové and WIFD's Second Assistant Chief Joseph Badala.

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