9/11 widow stresses importance of donating blood

Orange, Conn. (WTNH) -  

She lost her first husband in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, but that tragedy hasn't stopped a Danbury woman from giving. She is one of many rolling up their sleeves and giving blood to help save lives.

Among those giving blood at the American Red Cross/News 8 'Remember 9/11 Blood Drive' at the High Plains Community Center in Orange was Vicky Pratt.

"I think it's just a nice way to turn a positive out of something just horrendous," Pratt said.

She was 8 months pregnant on September 11th, 2001, when a hijacked plane hit the South Tower of the World Trade Center. Her husband, Robert Higley, was an executive at an insurance company on the 92nd floor.

After making sure all of his employees got on an elevator he went back to check the office one more time to make sure everyone had been accounted for.

He never made it out.

"I know he saved lives and yes, it's very bitter sweet and I have met a woman who said she remembered the elevator door closing and just wanting to grab his shirt and say 'wait you come with us, everybody is out' -- that didn't end the way everyone wanted it too," she said.

By giving blood Vicky may also be saving a life. Vicky's father Bob is a longtime blood donor. He's given blood more than 130 times, potentially helping hundreds of patients.

Although few have that kind of commitment, the Red Cross says all of us can help because blood of all types is always needed, and that need is especially critical this time of the year.

"Inventories are depleted after the summer months because people are back from vacations and schools are back in session," said American Red Cross spokeswoman Elaine St. Peter. "We are encouraging people to donate blood because blood is needed."

If you have any other doubts about why it's so important just ask Vicky. "The world needs blood and if people are able I think they should to help people less fortunate and those in need."

Here's a list of the American Red Cross blood drives for Saturday, September 11th.

• Miracle Faith Outreach, 750 Main Street, Monroe
• Trumbull Fire House, 860 Whiteplains road, Trumbull
• American Red Cross Donor Center, 596 Westport Ave, Norwalk
• Tully Health Center, 32 Strawberry Hill Court, Stamford
• American Red Cross Blood Center, 209 Farmington Ave, Farmington
• Hospital of Central Connecticut, 100 Grand Street, New Britain
• Southington Fire Department, 310 North Main Street, Southington

For more information about donating blood visit ctredcross.org