Blood donors rolled up their sleeves at the Jersey City Police and Fire 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive held today at the Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson in honor of those who lost their lives 21 years ago in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Members of the Jersey City Police and Fire Departments, community members, Sept. 11 survivors and friends and family of those lost on Sept. 11, donated blood to mark the occasion while giving back to the community. The drive, sponsored by Suburban Propane, collected more than 170 units of blood.

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“As the nation marks the anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, we should hold in our hearts the memory of all those we lost, honor the brave responders who helped that day and in the aftermath, and rekindle the spirit of service to help our neighbors in need,” said Rosie Taravella, CEO, American Red Cross New Jersey Region.

Blood donation also holds a special significance for Funmilayo Brown, whose daughter Chloe Rose was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer when she was two years old. Chloe received numerous blood transfusions as part of her treatment. Funmilayo is grateful to blood donors who she feels helped save her daughter’s life. Chloe is a beautiful 8-year-old who is playing soccer, taking gymnastics and who just started third grade. As a mother who knows, Funmilayo continues to donate blood in the hopes her donation helps another child fighting cancer.

Betsy Varughese’s brother lost his battle with cancer at the age of 28. Betsy remembers the important role blood and platelet donations played in her brother’s treatment and wants to help others by donating herself. With September being her brother’s birthday month, and in remembrance of Sept. 11, Betsy felt today’s blood drive was a fitting way to honor her brother.

All presenting donors received a Red Cross first aid kit, courtesy of Suburban Propane, a proud national sponsor of the American Red Cross.

"For the eighth consecutive year, we are so grateful to our partners at the American Red Cross for the opportunity to sponsor this event alongside our friends and neighbors at the Jersey City Police and Fire Departments," said Nandini Sankara, Spokesperson at Suburban Propane. "It is with a great sense of humility and appreciation that we take part in this auspicious day in remembrance of all those who gave their lives on 9/11; and we encourage all who are available to join us in donating lifesaving blood."

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.