This World Blood Donor Day (June 14), we’re calling attention to the need for blood and honoring donors who give of themselves to ensure a reliable supply of blood for patients with diseases and facing the unexpected.

Fran Mosconi recently recorded her 100th blood donation!

“My mother was my inspiration. She was a regular blood donor. She was Type 0 Negative and, as a teenager, I remember the Red Cross would call her and ask if she would donate. She was always happy to take part and help. I knew I wanted to follow in her worthy footsteps, so I began donating myself as soon as I was old enough to do so. That was in Connecticut and then I moved to Syracuse where I continued donating at the Blood Donation Center.”

“I donate now at my parish, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Baldwinsville. I love hearing from the Red Cross a couple weeks after each donation letting me know that my blood helped a patient locally or, because the need is being met here, I helped someone in another community. It’s nice to get that personal touch and find out where I’m making a difference.”

It’s critically important the Red Cross maintain a stable blood supply for patients this summer. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).