December 19, 2003

Giving the gift of life for the holidays

While many holiday shoppers frantically search for the perfect gift to give this holiday season, the MGH Blood Donor Center suggests giving one of the most precious gifts of all – the gift of life. A single blood donation can be used to help several patients who may be battling life-threatening illnesses or injuries.

According to Kim Cronin of the Blood Donor Center, the holiday season can be a difficult time to maintain safe blood supply levels at the hospital because of the decline in volunteers donating blood. "Because of the recent snowstorms, an early flu season and the hectic holidays, we already are experiencing a shortage in blood supplies," she says. "We hope that employees, visitors and family members of patients will consider taking the time to donate blood to help our patients."

During December, blood donors also can participate in the "puppy pal" program to spread holiday cheer to patients of MassGeneral Hospital for Children. For each donation, a Beanie Baby puppy will be delivered to a young patient who can't be home for the holidays. Each stuffed puppy comes with a gift tag signed by the donor.

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