FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sarah Diina, 400-7249(c), sdiina@ConnectLife.org
Blood drive to support veteran NYSP Trooper seriously injured in motorcycle crash
When New York State Police Sergeant Station Commander Sam Mattina was badly hurt in a motorcycle crash in September, he was able to survive thanks in part to Western New York’s incredible blood donors who made sure he had the blood he needed. Now, he and his family are looking to pay that kindness forward by helping find more donors to help the next person in his situation.
They’re partnering with ConnectLife for a blood drive Sunday, October 27th from 10am-3pm at the State Police Lockport Barracks at 6566 Dysinger Rd. All blood collected at the drive will go to Western New York hospitals, meaning each donor will be potentially saving the lives of three neighbors they may never meet.
Sgt. Mattina suffered multiple broken bones, internal bleeding and organ damage when he was hit while riding his motorcycle along the Niagara Scenic Parkway September 13th. He underwent multiple surgeries at ECMC which involved several blood transfusions.
“We are so grateful that these transfusions were available to Sam during his time of need,” said Helana Mulawka with the NYSP Employee Assistance Program. “We were made aware that blood donated with ConnectLife stays local, and that the supply is so low. We encourage anyone that can to come donate blood. We are so thankful and appreciative for all the support we have received that we are able to make a small impact to give back.”
Donors will be entered into ConnectLife’s weekly raffle for two M&T Club tickets, food and drink included, to see an upcoming Bills home game.
All blood donated to ConnectLife stays local, saving lives at nearly every hospital in WNY’s eight counties. Donors are welcome at centers in Williamsville, West Seneca, and Tonawanda, as well as mobile drives around the area daily. To schedule an appointment, visit ConnectLifeGiveBlood.org or call 716.529.4270.
Download the press release below.
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ConnectLife helps people help others. As a federally designated not-for-profit organ procurement organization and community blood bank, we save and enhance lives through organ, eye, tissue and blood donations.
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