'Watertown Strong' Blood Drive to Honor MBTA Officer Dic Donohue

The town of Watertown is partnering with the American Red Cross and Mount Auburn Hospital to hold a special joint blood drive in honor of MBTA Police Officer Dic Donohue on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Watertown High School, 50 Columbia St.in Watertown.

This “Watertown Strong” blood drive marks the one year anniversary of Officer Donohue being shot in Watertown in an intense gun battle with the accused Boston Marathon bombing suspects.

Donohue was shot in the femoral artery during the shootout, which caused him to lose a large amount of blood, so much so that police escorts brought blood in from several hospitals in the area, as well as from the Red Cross in Dedham. Red Cross officials say Donohue is standing strong today thanks to the generosity of blood donors.

“We depend on generous volunteer blood donors to provide lifesaving blood for those in need – each and every day – not only during times of national disaster. Last April the American Red Cross sent 600 blood products to Boston area hospitals in response to the tragedy,” said Donna M. Morrissey, Director of Communications, American Red Cross Northeast Division in a statement issued Monday. “Having a sufficient blood supply is part of preparedness.  It’s the blood on the shelves today that help save lives tomorrow.”

Officer Donohue was rushed by ambulance to Mount Auburn Hospital, where doctors worked meticulously to save his life.

“Day in and day out we see patients who need blood. We are inspired by Officer Donohue’s remarkable recovery this past year and are honored to join with his family, the Red Cross and the Watertown community for this special event,” said Michael O’Connell, Vice President, Planning and Marketing, Mount Auburn Hospital.

“Donating blood is a very important and special way to remember those we lost in the Marathon Bombings and the days that followed.  Our police force responds to emergencies every day and often times those patients need blood,” said Chief Ed Deveau, Watertown Police Department.

Every two seconds, someone in America needs blood, according to the American Red Cross. Several area blood drives are being held this April in honor of the courageous individuals whose lives were forever changed by the Boston Marathon bombings. You can make an appointment to donate at one of these drives by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767) or by visiting redcrossblood.org.