Photo: Jim MacKay/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The American Red Cross observed National Preparedness Month and remembered the lives of those lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with a 'Day of Remembrance' blood drive on Thursday.
"It was a worldwide story, but it's also very much a Massachusetts story," Kelly Isenor with the Red Cross stated.
Residents gathered at Fenway Park to give blood as an act of service to honor the 206 people killed who had ties to Massachusetts, including those on board United Airlines Flight 175 and American Airlines Flight 11. Both flights departed from Logan Airport.
"We do an event like this at Fenway Park every year," Isenor said. "It really is just a great way for people who, you know, want to pay tribute to the events of 9/11."
Photo: Jim MacKay/WBZ NewsRadio
The American Red Cross supplies nearly 40 percent of the nation's blood. The non-profit depends on the general public to help fulfill its mission — especially during tragedies like 9/11.
"The lines at donation centers that would stretch down around the block. It was just such a powerful moment," Isenor remarked.
Individuals who want to donate blood can make an appointment via the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. All blood types are needed. Isenor said it's a great way to contribute to the community and shows gratitude to first responders and volunteers.
"Want to pay tribute to the events of 9/11? You can come here, you can give blood. It's a way to give back to the community."
WBZ NewsRadio’s Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports.