Legislators really do have a heart! One in particular who has a BIG Heart is long-time apheresis donor for the American Red Cross, Rep. Richard Ferrari (R-East Granby). Rep. Ferrari has donated more than 150 units of platelets. Together with Yankee Gas lobbyist, Norman VanCor (on bed donating in picture below), who has donated 170 units of platelets and more than 25 gallons of whole blood, you really have government in action!

Both Rep. Ferrari and VanCor believe that their commitment to the apheresis program is the right thing to do. Apheresis, from the greek translation "to take a part of", is a procedure where blood is drawn from one arm and passes through a blood separating machine where plasma, platelets, and white cells are collected. The remaining red blood cells are then returned to the donor through the other arm. The components that are collected are used in treatments to help people with cancers, blood disorders and other diseases. Some treatments can include transfusions of blood and blood products such as platelets. Platelets have a very short life span of just five days, and are critical in the recovery of those patients undergoing cancer and leukemia treatments. There is no substitute for these products.

"It's easy and it only takes a couple of hours of your time," said Rep. Ferrari. "I'd encourage anyone who likes to do things for others to become a blood donor. It is a unique and special way of helping people whose lives literally depend on the generosity of others."

Rolling up his sleeves before his donation, VanCor wonders, "what more important thing can a person do than give the gift of life to those in need? It's a wonderful way to share your blessings and to make a dramatic difference in someone's life."

For more information on how you can get involved in the American Red Cross apheresis program, please call (860) 678-2749. To make an appointment to donate blood in your area, please call 1-800 GIVE LIFE (1-800-448-3542) or visit our web site at www.redcross.org/ct/bloodservices.