Hundreds give blood for Rockville Centre resident battling cancer

Inspired by a local resident in need of transfusions as part of cancer treatment, some 300 people braved a day-long wind-swept rain in late March to line up as potential blood donors at Mercy Medical Center.

The blood drive in support of Rob Sullivan was organized by his friends in conjunction with an event that Mercy had previously-scheduled for that day with Long Island Blood Services, which attracted another 79 potential donors.

“We thought it was a fabulous idea and a great way for us to give something back and help others,” said Rob’s wife, Suzanne.

By the end of the day, the concurrent drives collected 288 pints of blood.

“It is,” said Suzanne Sullivan, “humbling and encouraging to know that we have so much support from which to draw strength.”

Anyone who couldn't get to the blood drive can always donate at The New York Blood Center's Rockville Centre office, 290 Sunrise Highway. The phone number is (800) 933-2566.