The camp was organized by American Panjabi Society Women’s Forum in collaboration with New York Cancer and Blood Specialists and New York Blood Center
Hicksville, NY: The American Punjabi Society (APS) Women’s Forum, in collaboration with New York Cancer and Blood Specialists and the New York Blood Center, organized a highly successful Blood Donation Camp on 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.
Initially, the camp anticipated 25 donations; however, due to the tremendous community turnout, 47 successful donations were made. The event, originally scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, had to extend its hours until 2:00 PM. Despite the extension, the high volume of donors resulted in some being turned away due to time constraints.
Dr. Tarun Wasil, an eminent hematologist-oncologist, played a pivotal role in the camp's success, ensuring that all aspects of the blood donation process were handled with the utmost care and efficiency. His leadership and dedication to community health were instrumental in the camp’s achievements.
APS Women Forum Chair Navneet Sondhi addressing the audience. (Photo courtesy: Pradeep Tandon/American Panjabi Society)
Navneet Sondhi, Chairperson of the APS Women’s Forum, expressed her gratitude, stating, “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.”
Dr. Tarun Wasil added, “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.”
American Punjabi Society President Gary S. Sikka also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tarun Wasil and Navneet Sondhi for their exceptional leadership in organizing the camp. He extended his thanks to all supporting organizations, emphasizing that "together, we can make a difference."
Key support for the Blood Donation Camp came from AAPI-QLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin – QLI), represented by its President, Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, and Board of Trustees Chair, Dr. Raj Bhayani, as well as IALI (India Association of Long Island), represented by its President, Pradeep Tandon. Their leadership and participation were instrumental in ensuring the event's success. 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 is committed to organizing more such initiatives in the future, focusing on community welfare and humanitarian causes. This successful event demonstrates the power of collaboration in making a meaningful impact.
