WESTFIELD-The Amelia Park Arena will be the setting for a unique benefit on Nov. 19 that encourages area residents to donate blood in this season of giving.
Titled “Hockey Players Give Blood Challenge,” the event is planned from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and donors each receive as a thank you a Dunkin’ Donuts coffee and a free public skate. Also, the hockey team (youth players through college) with the most representatives (players or recruits) to donate blood wins a block of ice time and free food, beverages and skate rentals for up to 100 people.
Brian Barnes, executive director, Amelia Park Arena, noted that the block of ice time could be used either as a fundraising event or to conduct a party for the team.
“The free block of ice time is valued at $275,” he said, adding, “We are excited to partner with Baystate Health and Amelia Park hockey teams to participate in a fun, creative event that will ultimately provide the necessary life blood for many local needy patients.”
Before one can donate blood, Baystate Health’s Blood Donor Program has set up specific guidelines to follow, including a donor must be at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health (no colds or sore throats), and must bring in a valid photo identification including a driver’s license or school I.D.
Donors will also be asked specific questions during the interview process and must know the dates and places of any travel outside of the United States during the past three years, as well as any medical conditions that should be disclosed and any medications that are being taken.
Area residents can donate blood if they have had the flu shot or flu mist; however, they cannot donate if they have had a tattoo, permanent body ink or body piercing during the past 12 months.
To also ensure donating blood is a smooth process, representatives from the Blood Donor Program encourage donors to drink eight to 10 glasses of water prior to the donation that will prepare one’s body for the fluid lost during the donation, and to avoid coffee, alcohol, or caffeinated beverages that dehydrate the body. Additionally, eight hours of sleep the night before is recommended so that one will feel rested and healthy during the donation, and eating a well-balanced breakfast the morning of the donation is suggested.
Sponsors of this event include Baystate Health, Lisa Oleksak-Sullivan of Coldwell Banker, Advance Manufacturing Co., and Coldwell Banker/Figy Realty Team.
To reserve a time slot to donate blood, contact Barnes at (413) 568-2503 or via email to [email protected]. Walk-ins are welcome, however, by having an appointment it will ensure a smooth process when checking in.
“We hope that this event brings awareness to the blood supply shortfall issue and may in some small way inspire others to take action,” said Barnes.
