WYOMING, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island Blood Center is set to host a blood drive in memory of Gary Harrison Sr., a cancer patient who succumbed to his illness back in 2012. According to a release, Gary Harrison battled prostate cancer for two years, and during that time, he received several blood transfusions. The drive will take place starting at 2 p.m. at the Richmond Police Station Community Room. Gary’s family has been hosting blood drives for over a decade in honor of the “selfless gifts that helped him in his fight.” The Rhode Island Blood Center said they saw nearly a 25% drop in donations during the week of Thanksgiving. They said the holiday season is “historically challenging” for the blood supply, as school breaks, family vacations and holiday travel all contribute to making blood donation less of a priority. Hospitals and patients rely on a steady flow of volunteer donors, but recent years have been marked by chronic blood shortages nationwide, according to the RIBC. The RIBC said blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit ribc.org or call 401-453-8383. Categories: News