Blood Drive Named For Late Nassau County Woman

MASSAPEQUA, NY — The Town of Oyster Bay and the New York Blood Center are partnering to honor a Massapequa woman.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bridget McElroy was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of soft tissue cancer.

While being treated for her cancer, McElroy received many blood transfusions, experiencing firsthand what a life-saving gift blood donation can be.

She died at the age of 35.

"Bridget was focused on helping others and requested that her family and friends give the gift of life by donating blood," Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. "Now that she’s sadly passed away, we’re continuing her legacy by hosting 'Bridget’s Birthday Blood Bank,' a blood drive in her honor."

It was McElroy's wish that family and friends donate blood in celebration of her birthday.

The drive will be held on Saturday, Aug. 19 at Marjorie Post Park Community Center.

It runs from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., but to make an appointment, you can sign up online or call Linda Wienclaw at (929) 240-1722 for more information.