Boston 25 News teams up with Red Cross for One Boston Day blood drive

BOSTON — Boston 25 News celebrated One Boston Day by teaming up with the American Red Cross for a blood drive on Sunday morning.

In one of the many Boston Strong events happening across the city, Boston 25 News anchors Mark Ockerbloom and Vanessa Welch raised up their sleeves for a good cause.

"One Boston Day and its a chance for everyone, really, to get involved, to help out, to volunteer, to take part in acts of kindness and acts of good," said Boston 25 News anchor Mark Ockerbloom. "We're seeing that throughout - we're here at the blood drive, the Boston Strong blood drive, and so many people have come through the door and donated the gift of life."

They said many of the walk-ins for blood and platelet donations were inspired by all the good happening around Boston.

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"Some of our viewers came out to us and said they just felt like they had to do something to mark the 5th anniversary of the Marathon bombings and that they wanted to come and give the gift of life," said Boston 25 News anchor Vanessa Welch.

"I wanna do the right thing, give blood, give back," said Daniel Sardella. "You never know when someone needs it, it's a good cause."

One Boston Day was created to honor the resiliency, generosity and strength shown by the people of Boston and those around the world in response to the April 15, 2013 Marathon Tragedy.

Every year, on April 15, organizations, individuals and businesses come together to celebrate the many ways the Boston community has lifted itself up. Events across the city highlight the generosity and strength of a city that does not back down when faced with adversities.

"This day is a tragic day in our city's history, but it is also a day that this city came together in such a way back in April 2013 - it's empowering to come here now and do good and show that good does triumph over evil," said Ockerbloom.

More than 50 units of blood were collected by donors at the blood drive on Sunday morning. Just one unit of blood can help up to three hospital patients.

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Cox Media Group