Baystate Health’s Mobile Blood Donation Team Coming to Palmer on Aug. 2

PALMER — The Baystate Health Blood Donation team will host a blood drive at Baystate Wing Hospital on Wednesday, Aug. 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, blood drives will be held every other month on Wednesdays throughout the year at Baystate Wing, including on Oct. 4 and Dec. 6.

“When you donate blood to Baystate Health, your precious gift remains in our local communities,” said Nicole VanZandt, supervisor of BRL Blood Donor Services. “Please help us to ensure a safe and adequate blood supply is available by donating blood with the Baystate Health Blood Donor Program.”

Blood donations take approximately one hour to complete, including the interview, donation, and refreshments. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, have a photo ID, be in good health (no colds or sore throat), and have not donated blood within the past eight weeks.

In appreciation, all eligible donors will receive a $10 gift card or a Big E ticket while supplies last.

Why is there a constant need for blood donations, and why are they so important? Blood donations can be lifesaving for many people facing health conditions or problems that might require a transfusion. Some of these reasons may include cancer, trauma or injuries, operations, blood disorders, pregnancy, and birth.

For more information or to book an appointment to donate blood, call the Blood Donor Center at (413) 794-4600. Donors should note Baystate Wing Hospital as the location where they would like to make their donation when they make the appointment.