Palmer EMS, Police, Fire Departments Support Fourth Annual Blood Drive

PALMER — On Oct. 9, the Palmer Ambulance Service sponsored its fourth annual Ambulance, Police, and Fire Department Blood Drive in partnership with the Baystate Health Blood Donor Team at Baystate Wing Hospital.

“As members of the EMS, Fire, and Police departments, we are out in the front line responding to medical emergencies, and we often witness why there is a great need for blood donations,” said Mary Lee Frydryk, an EMT who challenged her colleagues and members of the Police and Fire departments to give blood.

“There is a dire need for blood and blood products, and just by giving one pint of blood, you can help to save numerous lives,” added Frydryk, who has a 40-year legacy of providing emergency care in the town of Palmer.

Blood donations are needed for a wide variety of medical reasons, including trauma and accident victims, mothers experiencing complications after childbirth, and individuals receiving cancer treatment.

“One donation can save up to three lives,” said Nicole VanZandt, supervisor of BRL Blood Donor Services. “We are grateful to the Palmer Ambulance Service and the Palmer Police and Fire department team members who gave blood. As a result of their friendly competition, we received 26 blood donations.

“Regardless of the time of the year, the need for blood donations never takes a break, and when you donate blood to Baystate Health, your precious gift remains in our local communities,” she added. “Please help us to ensure a safe and adequate blood supply is available by donating blood with the Baystate Health Blood Donor Program. There is no substitute for human blood. Every donation is critical, and you can make a difference in someone’s life with your donation.”

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.

On Wednesday, Dec. 11, the Baystate Blood Donor Program team will return to Baystate Wing Hospital, 40 Wright St., Palmer, in Snow Conference Room C. In appreciation, all eligible donors will receive a $10 gift card of their choice.

For more information or to book an appointment to donate blood, call the Baystate Health Blood Donor Center at (413) 794-4600.