MGH Has an “Urgent Need” for Blood and Platelet Donations

Photo by Samantha Carey

Just a couple days ago, we reported on a blood shortage at Boston Children’s Hospital. Unfortunately, the pediatric medical center isn’t alone in its search for donors.

Massachusetts General Hospital has “an urgent need” for blood donations, according to a spokesperson. Platelets and type AB blood are especially crucial right now, due to a current uptick in usage.

The hospital’s blood bank serves not only Mass General, but also patients at Shriners Hospital for Children, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital—so it’s vital that its supplies remain steady. At this time of year, however, Mass General sees roughly 25 to 50 percent fewer donors than it typically does.

If you visit on certain days this month, you’ll help the blood bank return to full capacity and get a little something for your troubles. Every Thursday in February, the MGH Blood Donor Center rewards each donor with a cupcake from a local bakery. (And yes, this bribery works—the Mass General spokesperson says volume quadruples or quintuples on cupcake Thursdays.)

You can donate whole blood from Tuesday through Friday, or platelets from Monday through Friday, plus one Saturday per month. Appointments may be scheduled for blood donations, and are requested for platelet donations. Click here for more information, and eligibility guidelines.

MGH Blood Donor Center, 55 Fruit St., Boston, massgeneral.org.

Donate blood, get a cupcake. / Photo Provided