Blood Drive Honors Beloved West Islip Fire Commissioner On Monday

Community Corner

Blood Drive Honors Beloved West Islip Fire Commissioner On Monday The West Islip Fire Department is hosting a blood drive in honor of former West Islip Fire Commissioner, Mitch Lohan.

WEST ISLIP, NY — The United States is facing a " blood shortage " due to a significant drop in blood donations according to the New York Blood Center.

In an effort to help those in need, the West Islip Fire Department and the NYBC are hosting a blood drive on Monday, September 23, from 1:45 to 7:45 p.m.

The blood drive is being held in memory of Mitch Lohan, a beloved member of the West Islip community and former West Islip Fire Commissioner.

Lohan was an active volunteer and family man who lost his life to acute myeloid leukemia at 57 years old, fire department officials said.

He dedicated 38 years of service to the West Islip Fire Department and was a loyal supporter of West Islip sports, from local youth leagues to the varsity level.

Thos who knew him said that Lohan was known for his unwavering willingness to help others and was an active blood and platelet donor before his cancer diagnosis in 2020.

Lohan family and friends are encouraging the West Islip community to honor his memory by donating blood so that blood products are available for those who may need them.

One blood donation can save up to three lives, according to the New York Blood Center.

Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions.

To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800-688-0900.

The drive will take place Monday, September 23, from 1:45 to 7:45 p.m. at the West Islip Fire Department at 309 Union Boulevard in West Islip.