At Noble, Blood Donations Stay Local
Westfield, Mass., If you are in good health and more than 17 years old, you can make a difference in someone's life - without spending a dime. There is always a need for blood! Noble Hospital's newly renovated Blood Donor Center provides a convenient location in which individuals can make a blood donation - and because donations made at Noble Hospital stay local, the gift of blood may benefit someone you know.
Blood is needed everyday. About 1 in 5 people entering the hospital require blood. "The three major uses for blood donations are for patients during surgery, those undergoing chemotherapy or patients in trauma," says Joan Murphy, MS, MT (ASCP) Microbiology/Transfusion Service Manager. "The real benefit of donating at Noble is that most blood donated at the hospital is used at the hospital. Your donation may very well help a neighbor, a friend or a relative of someone you know."
Long time donor Ann Reichert has given more than 6 gallons of blood over the last 17 years. Initially Reichert started donating during a blood drive and has kept it up because she discovered it to be such an easy way to give something to the community. She insists it is effortless and in fact views it as a relaxing undertaking as she has an opportunity to be "pampered" by the personalized, individual attention from the staff. She also enjoys watching the new plasma TV and indulging in a few "guiltless" cookies during the process. "It takes no more than hour, it really doesn't hurt and it helps save lives. What else can you do in such a short amount of time and have a greater impact?" says Reichert.
The Blood Donor Center at Noble Hospital has been recently moved and updated. The suite includes a private patient screening room and a donor room equipped with a set of three new comfortable donor chairs, a 42" plasma TV, a juice and cookie bar and café seating.
Giving blood is fast, easy and safe. The entire process takes about 45 minutes. Donors initially undergo a brief screening, which includes blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and a medical history review. Giving the blood only takes about 15 minutes. After donating, donors are treated to refreshments. Murphy encourages anyone over 17 years of age and in general good health to call (413) 572-5035 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Noble Hospital is located at 115 W. Silver St. Westfield, MA.
