Today, Assemblymember Monica P. Wallace (D-Lancaster) presented a citation to honor and commend Gene Baran, of Lancaster, for consistently donating blood every four weeks for over 50 years. As a result, Baran has donated blood over 300 times and given a total of over 37.5 gallons.

Baran began donating at 19 years-old, while serving in the U.S. Army, and ever since, he has donated close to every 56 days, which is the most that he is allowed to.

“This past Monday was World Blood Donor Day, but individuals like Gene Baran don’t need a special day to remind them of the need for blood donations. He has donated blood at every opportunity, for his entire adult life,” said Assemblymember Wallace. “It’s my pleasure to commend Gene Baran, who has helped to save countless lives through his generosity and compassion. I encourage others to find out if they can donate blood, and if so, to follow through and give the gift of life.”

“I appreciate this recognition from Assemblymember Wallace, and I hope that it encourages others to donate blood more often,” said Gene Baran. “It’s an easy way to help others, it’s not very painful, and it could save someone’s life.”

The American Red Cross is currently experiencing a severe blood shortage as a result of increasing numbers of trauma cases, organ transplants and elective surgeries. The organization is urging donors of all blood types – especially type O and those giving platelets – to make an appointment to give as soon as possible to prevent further impact to patients.

“Through his decades of lifesaving blood donations, Gene Baran truly embodies the spirit of the Red Cross mission,” said Jose Latalladi, interim Executive Director of the American Red Cross Western New York chapter. “With his unwavering dedication to those in need, Mr. Baran has undoubtedly delivered help and hope to countless lives across our region and beyond and on behalf of the American Red Cross we are proud to recognize him today.”