Shirtsleeves were rolled up, arms were extended and needles were poised as men and women from across Ulster County and beyond came to Ellenville, in memory of the late Daniel Stanforth, to donate blood. The blood drive, which was organized by Dan's mother, Debbie Stanforth, was held at the Scoresby Fire hall Tuesday, April 10 for the second year in a row. Mrs. Stanforth spoke proudly of her son who was a frequent blood donor before he passed away nearly two years ago.

"He would donate blood every chance he could, which is every 56 days," said Stanforth. "It was very important to him," she continued. Dan, who was a volunteer with the local first aid and rescue squad, knew how vital giving blood was to saving lives and helping people heal.

Mrs. Stanforth contacted the New York Blood Center (NYBC) who sent its staff to draw blood and answer questions at the event. Throughout the day the drive drew in a steady flow of people of all ages and backgrounds and over 40 pints of blood were donated. Many people who attended the drive had donated blood previously, while others came by to show their support for Dan and his family. Amy Schmatzle, a resident of Ellenville, has given blood many times. "I try to give when ever I can," she said.

"Once you've given blood you tend to continue doing so," added Debbie.

Refreshments were provided following the donations, which can take as little as 15 minutes depending on the person. As an additional gift, donors received complimentary gift certificates for a pint of ice cream from the Gillette Creamery. "It's a pint for a pint," said Debbie, of the generous donation that was made by the Creamery. Parents of children from the Ellenville Cooperative Nursery School, where Danny's daughter, Hannah and his niece Sophie are currently students, donated not only their blood but their time as well by volunteering throughout the day.

According to NYBC there are currently no other substitutions for human blood. The only way that hospitals can acquire blood is through live donations. Quite often shortages of blood occur as a result of insufficient numbers of donors. NYBC estimates that one donation of blood can save as many as two lives. Once donated, blood can be processed and utilized within 48 hours.

"I just want to remind people to get out there and donate," said Mrs. Stanforth. People could leave the drive and not only pick up a pint of ice cream on the way home but also feel good knowing that they just may have saved a life and honored one as well.

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