The American Punjabi Society (APS) Women’s Forum, in collaboration with New York Cancer and Blood Specialists and the New York Blood Center, hosted a highly successful Blood Donation Camp August 25, 2024, at the Pearl Banquet Hall in Hicksville, New York.
The event, led by Navneet Sondhi from the APS Women’s Forum and Dr. Tarun Wasil from New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, exceeded all expectations with an overwhelming response from the community, organizers said in a press release.
Initially, the camp anticipated 25 blood donations; however, the community turnout was almost double. There were 47 successful donations and the event, originally scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, had to extend its hours until 2:00 PM. Even then some donors had to be turned away.
Dr. Wasil, a hematologist-oncologist, ensured that all aspects of the blood donation process were handled with the utmost care and efficiency.
“The incredible turnout is a testament to our community’s generosity and dedication to helping others. We are deeply thankful to everyone who participated and supported this event.” Sondhi, chairperson of the APS Women’s Forum, is quoted saying in the press release.
“Blood donation is a critical need, and the success of today’s camp will make a significant difference in many lives. We are proud to have partnered with the APS Women’s Forum and the New York Blood Center in this vital effort,” said Dr. Wasil.
American Punjabi Society President Gary S. Sikka expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Wasil and Sondhi for taking the leadership in organizing the camp. He thanksed all supporting organizations as well.
Key support for the Blood Donation Camp came from AAPI-QLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin – Queens-Long Island), and IALI (India Association of Long Island). AAPI-QLI was represented by its President, Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, and Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Raj Bhayani. IALI was represented by its President, Pradeep Tandon.
Additional support was provided by Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), Vaisakhi 5K Run, New York Telangana Telugu Association (NYTTA), Indo American Chamber of Commerce NY, and Long Island Indo American Lions Club.
The APS Women’s Forum said it is committed to organizing more such initiatives in the future; The community organization,American Punjabi Society said it is dedicated to promoting social, cultural, and humanitarian initiatives; The New York Cancer and Blood Specialists is a leading provider of cancer and blood disorder treatments, offering comprehensive care and support to patients throughout New York; Lastly, the New York Blood Center is one of the largest independent, community-based blood centers in the United States.
