The Paterson Fire Department hosted its annual blood drive Tuesday in memory of the late Fr. John Piccione, drawing support from current and retired firefighters, community members, and Mayor Andre Sayegh.
The event, held in partnership with New Jersey Blood Services, comes during September’s Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Officials stressed that blood donations not only help patients living with sickle cell disease but also those battling cancer, trauma, and other life-threatening conditions.
Firefighters set a goal of collecting 50 units of blood, which could help save up to 150 lives.
“This drive is a tradition for us, and it’s a way to honor Father John’s legacy,” said Battalion Chief Mike Trommelen of the Paterson Fire Department. “He was our pastor, and when he passed from leukemia in 2009, it underscored the importance of blood donations. A lot of people think of trauma when they think of Paterson, but in reality, it’s cancer patients who need blood just as much.”
