February 6, 2004

Healing hands help wholesome hearts

In recognition of National Blood Donor Month, the MGH Blood Donor Center offered free massages Jan. 23, 26 and 30 to all donors who donated blood or blood platelets on those days.

Any trace of pre-donation jitters were soothed away as donors were treated to stress-relieving massages (below) courtesy of Kevin von Braun, owner of Orange Sky Massage.



According to MGH Blood Donor Center staff, this time of year typically has a low donation rate, so employees are encouraged to donate blood or platelets to help MGH patients. "Donations have dropped considerably this winter because of the extended flu season and inclement weather," says Jeanette Arrighi of the MGH Blood Donor Center.

The center, located on Gray 1, is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Hours for donating platelets are Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am to 5 pm and Friday, 8:30 am to 3 pm. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (617) 726-8177. All donors who donate during the month of February will receive a free long-sleeve shirt and a chance to sign a Valentine card that will be attached to a stuffed toy for MassGeneral Hospital for Children patients. This is in honor of Congenital Heart Defect Awareness week.