Suffolk News-Herald

Blood is always needed for emergencies and for people who have cancer, blood disorders, sickle cell, anemia and other illnesses, however, this time of year is when it’s needed the most.

Donna Perry, financial development coordinator for the Suffolk Chapter of Red Cross, said the demand is greater now because people take vacations and donations go down while accidents and injuries increase.

&uot;Nearly 5 million people receive blood transfusions each year and your donation could mean the difference between life and death,&uot; Perry added. &uot;Giving blood is a simple and convenient procedure and we urge everyone who can to give blood – give the gift of life.&uot;

C. Randolph Johnson, an 87-year old Bridge Point Farms resident, was recognized Friday for donating 104 pints, or 13 gallons, of blood during his life. He urged everyone to watch for announcement about Red Cross blood drives this summer and to give the gift of life.

Suffolk Mayor E. Dana Dickens III is sending a letter of commendation to Johnson for his gift of life, several times over, to the people of Suffolk.

Look for future blood drive notices in the News-Herald, or for more information on donating blood, call the Suffolk Chapter of the American Red Cross at 539-6645, or go online at www.redcross.org