“You never know who you can help”

Frank Maddock

Frank Maddock is a person who believes in giving back to the community. In Lancaster, he can be seen volunteering in several capacities, whether it be at the Lancaster Public Library, at the media center in the William Street School, or delivering food with Meals on Wheels. He even helped spearhead a community cleanup effort. His pet peeve is when people are willing to complain but don’t bother to work to solve a problem.

Not only is Frank willing to donate his time, he also donates platelets. For about three years, Frank has made regular trips to the Eastern Hills Mall Blood Donation Center, giving through Unyts’ platelet pheresis program. “I usually have a standing appointment every two weeks,” Frank said.

Giving platelets takes longer than whole blood donation, but Frank doesn’t mind. “I’m up early anyway… a couple hours out of your morning doesn’t really affect anything, but gives you a chance to hopefully help someone down the line.”

Frank was previously a whole blood donor. When a staffer at a blood drive in Lancaster suggested that he donate platelets, he thought he’d give it a try. The positive attitude of the Unyts staff is what kept him coming back. “One of the driving forces is the action and professionalism of the [Unyts] crew, probably everywhere but especially at Eastern Hills,” Frank said. He added that the employees at the donation center are “always on the ball, very accommodating… It makes the process a whole heck of a lot easier.”

Frank also lends a hand at the Unyts facility on Curtwright Drive in Amherst, where he assembles signs promoting the locations of upcoming blood drives.

Frank’s high regard is returned by Unyts staff. “Frank Maddock is an extraordinary man,” said Pheresis Nurse Carol McNamara. “Some people in their golden years may become self-absorbed. Some may despair in their loneliness with loss of family and of their youth. Frank has stepped up to serve his community.”

She added, “I am honored to serve with Frank in our efforts to provide a steady supply of lifesaving blood. Frank is not just a donor, but a friend and role model.”

Frank downplayed his own generosity as a donor, simply saying, “You never know who you can help.”