(December 7, 2005 – Bartlett, Tenn.) Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett will host a blood drive on Thursday, December 15th from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  A Red Cross Bloodmobile will be located near the hospital’s main entrance at 2986 Kate Bond Rd.  Donors will receive a free gift while supplies last.
       According to the American Red Cross, there is a need to increase donations received in communities surrounding the Memphis area.  Currently over 25,000 units of red blood cells a year are distributed by the Red Cross to 11 hospitals in the Memphis area.  However, just 3,000 units are from Memphis area blood drives.  In order to fill requests by the hospitals, additional units are gathered from different locations thanks to the American Red Cross National Blood Inventory System. 
       “Working with organizations that can benefit Bartlett and the surrounding area is a priority,” says Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett Customer Service Director Jane Garrett. “We are encouraging everyone to give the gift of life because without their donations blood can not be provided to those in need.” 
       If you at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, have a photo ID, have not taken aspirin 48 hours prior to time of donation, and are in general good health, please respond to the need for your donation by giving at the blood drive hosted by Saint Francis Hospital- Bartlett. For a successful donation experience, please remember these important tips:
       • Get a good night's sleep.
       • Eat a hearty breakfast or lunch.
       • Drink plenty of fluids 
       People are encouraged to donate at any of the mobile drives in the Memphis area.  A convenient location can be found by calling 1-800 GIVE LIFE or logging on to www.memphis.redcross.org.

Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett, part of Tenet Tennessee, is a 100-bed full-service community hospital in Bartlett, Tenn.  The hospital, located at 2986 Kate Bond Road, opened on June 1, 2004 and is the first full-service medical center in its community.  Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett features a wide range of medical and health care services, including emergency care, an intensive care unit, a family birthing center, cardiology, oncology and diabetes care.  The hospital is fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, the nation’s oldest and largest hospital accreditation agency.  To learn more about Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett, visit www.saintfrancisbartlett.com.
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