Blood Drive For Clairton Officer Draws Huge Response
PETERS TOWNSHIP (KDKA) -- Clairton Police Officer Jim Kuzak lost nearly half of his blood after he responded to a home invasion call.
The 39-year-old officer is still in UPMC Mercy Hospital. More surgery may be needed to remove two more bullets from his body.
As Kuzak continues his recovery, the first of two blood drives was held in his honor.
This blood drive at the Peters Township Fire Hall drew droves of donors – all to support Officer Kuzak. He served on the police force for 13 years.
"He's a wonderful, loving man who just deserves everything for the best – we love him very much," according to his friend Nicki Woolensack.
All 18 blood giving stations were constantly filled and there was a waiting line.
"We've had a fantastic turnout since we opened up at noon," says Tamara Kilgore of the Blood Bank, "and we're expecting a lot of people to some out in Clairton also."
Many donors are police officers and their families from throughout the area.
"When one of us goes down like this we all – we all feel it," says Crafton Boro Police Officer Tim Harvison, "and I'm just here for him and his family to do what little bit I can."
This was a way for Jim Kuzak's family to thank the community for supplying the blood transfusions when he so desperately needed them.
Tomorrow's blood drive for Officer Kuzak will be held at the Clairton Fire Department on Ravensburg Boulevard from noon until 7 p.m.
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RELATED LINKS
Central Blood Bank
