RWJUH Somerset Announces Golf Incentive for Blood Donations

From Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset: Each summer, hospitals across the state experience a major drop in blood donations. Fewer donors creates a critical, and sometimes, emergency need for blood to assist local patients. The Somerset County Parks Commission is offering a round of free golf to blood donors at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Somerset in Somerville during July and August to combat what is expected to be an urgent need.

Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. That means more than 40,000 blood donations are needed every day. For this reason, new and returning blood donors at RWJ Somerset will receive a pass for a round of golf at one of the following county courses: Green Knoll, Quail Brook, Spooky Brook and Warren Brook. In previous years, the giveaway program was limited to August, but this year the Parks Commission and RWJ Somerset Blood Services are expanding eligibility to include July blood donors.

"We're grateful for the Park Commission's generosity. The golf incentive has been a great success over the years in attracting many new donors," said Christia Keyte, blood services supervisor, RWJUH Somerset. "Expanding the incentive to include July has the potential to raise interest and awareness of the hospital's need and increase donations during a time when supplies run the risk of becoming critically low."

Each unit of blood collected can be used to provide life-saving treatment for as many as two patients. All blood collected at RWJUH Somerset stays within the hospital to assist patients. Blood donation is a safe, efficient and meaningful way to save lives. There is no substitute for human blood and all types are expected to be needed.

Blood donors must be at least 18 years old (16 and 17 with parental consent), weigh 110 lbs. (16 year olds must weigh 120 lbs.), be in good health and bring a photo or signature ID. All donors should eat a good meal and drink plenty of fluids before donating and feel well on the day of donation. All questions regarding travel and health eligibility are welcome daily through Blood Services at 908-685-2926.

New and returning blood donors may schedule appointments here or by calling 908-685-2926. The donor room is located on the first floor of RWJUH Somerset (110 Rehill Ave., Somerville) daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. Please call for extended evening hours and Saturday donations.

To learn more about RWJUH Somerset , please visit here. For a referral to a physician affiliated with RWJUH, please call 1-888-MD-RWJUH. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

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