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Fallen Rochester Police Officer Remembered at Blood Drive

Veronica Volk
/
WXXI

Rochester Police Officer Daryl Pierson was memorialized Friday during a blood drive at the Locust Club, headquarters for the police union.

Last September, Pierson was fatally shot during a traffic stop. He is survived by his wife, Amy, and two young children.

In his memory, the American Red Cross held a blood drive. Friends of the family and fellow officers dropped by to show their support, donate, and share stories over cookies and apple juice.

Locust Club President Ralph Gagliano was among the first to arrive.

"It's something that I've been doing a long time. And, the opportunity to help out the community is something I really enjoy doing."

Gagliano says he's happy to support the Pierson family this way, especially since he was once a blood recipient.

"A year ago I suffered an aneurysm and now's an opportunity to give back to those who helped me."

The  blood drive  collected 52 Units of blood, exceeding the goal. Officials say the blood will help as many as 183 people in the Rochester area.

According to the American Red Cross, more than 41,000 blood donations are needed every day.

Veronica Volk is a senior editor and producer for WXXI News.