Blood Drive to Benefit LAPD Officer

Los Angeles: A blood drive is being held to aid a Los Angeles Police Officer injured in the line of duty.

On Thursday, November 29, 2007, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., friends, family, and fellow law enforcement officers will answer the call to donate blood on behalf of Officer Tony Salazar. Salazar was seriously injured during a narcotics investigation on November 20, 2007, when a narcotic suspect struck Salazar with his car as he was trying to escape from officers.

The blood drive will be held at Parker Center, 150 North Los Angeles Street, in downtown Los Angeles. The public is invited to take part in this blood drive. In addition to aiding Officer Salazar the blood collected will also benefit other needy patients at USC University Hospital, Kenneth Norris Cancer Center and USC Medical Center.

“This is a wonderful way to give something back to the community and do something good at the same time,” said Patty Hunt, Blood Donor Manager. “Our Police Officers risk their lives daily to keep us safe. What better way for the community to say ‘Thank You’ to the many LAPD Officers, and the Police Department, by coming out in support of Officer Salazar and donating blood.”

During this time of year blood donations are critically low. Area residents are encouraged to take time to save lives by donating blood.

“As we know, hospitals don’t close for the holidays,” said Sergeant Michael Apodaca the Los Angeles Police Department Wellness Coordinator (LAPD DWC). “The blood you donate now can save someone’s life during the holidays. Is there any better gift to give?”

For more information please contact Patty Hunt, USC University Donor Center Hemacare, at 818-451-9212, or Sergeant Apodaca, LAPD DWC, at 213-216-7009.