RWJ Somerset In 'Dire' Need Of Donations: Drive To Be Held Oct. 12

SOMERVILLE, NJ — Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman (R-16), who has donated more than 29 gallons of blood, will host a community blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m., on Oct. 12, at the Steeplechase Cancer Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville.

“New Jersey’s blood supply was already dangerously low before the hurricanes hit. Now, local hospitals like Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset are in dire need of donations,” Senator Bateman said. “I’ve been a blood donor for over 35 years. It’s one of the quickest, easiest ways to save a life.”

Bateman has been donating since 1980 and has hosted a fall blood drive at the Steeplechase Cancer Center every year for the past three years.

The Oct. 12 blood drive is open to the public, and anyone age 17 and older, or 16 with parental consent, is welcome to donate. First-time donors are also encouraged to participate.

Bateman noted that as little as one pint of blood, or one donation, can save three lives. All blood donated at the drive will be used to treat patients at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset.

The Steeplechase Cancer Center is located at 30 Rehill Ave, Somerville. Online registration is already open. The blood drive will also feature free pizza and a raffle to win a $25 gift card.

Blood donors should feel well at the time of donation, drink plenty of fluids, eat a good meal before donating and bring photo identification.

Donors who have questions regarding whether health conditions, medications and travel would preclude them from donating should call Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset’s Blood Services at 908-685-2926.

(Image via www.senatenj.com: Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman (R-16), who has donated more than 29 gallons of blood since 1980.)

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