Why Viacord
The Cord Blood ExpertsTM
What is cord blood and why is it so valuable?
Your baby’s cord blood is a valuable source of stem cells; the building blocks of organ tissue, blood and immune systems. Cord blood stem cells, like bone marrow stem cells, are free of political and ethical debate. Today, cord blood stem cells are proven to treat over 70 life-threatening diseases and over 10,000 transplants have been performed worldwide. Cord blood is a guaranteed match for the baby and may also provide potential treatment for other family members as well.
Why should I bank my baby’s cord blood?
Storing your newborn’s cord blood means that should there be a need, your baby will have a source of stem cells that is an exact match, with no risk of rejection. There is also a strong possibility that his/her siblings will be a match as well. This is important because clinical studies demonstrate that stem cells transplants are twice as successful when the stem cells come from a family member rather than from a non-relative (e.g., a public bank).
Why should I bank with ViaCord?
ViaCord is not just a cord blood bank, they are recognized leaders in cord blood stem cell research. ViaCord’s scientific expertise is an important benefit to your family. ViaCord pays special attention to your baby’s cord blood throughout its collection, processing and storage so that if it is ever needed for transplant, it will be of the highest quality. ViaCord co-developed an exclusive FDA-approved cord blood collection bag, the only FDA-approved cord blood collection bag available in the industry. ViaCord’s FDA-approved cord blood collection bag is suitable for use in a sterile field, which is important because over 30% of babies are delivered by planned and unplanned cesarean sections. ViaCord has a proven history of delivering safe and effective units for transplant.
What kinds of advancements have been made with cord blood stem cells?
In 1988 the odds of being diagnosed by the age of 50 with a disease currently treatable with cord blood stem cells was 1 in 300,000 and the number of diseases treatable with cord blood was one. Today, the calculated probability of being diagnosed with a disease that is currently treatable with cord blood stem cells could be as high 1 in 217 and the number of treatable diseases is over 70.
What is the future for cord blood stem cells?
Medical researchers are exploring new uses for umbilical cord blood stem cells, including diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Today, scientists are doing pre-clinical research using cord blood stem cells to potentially treat various cancers and heart disease. Breakthroughs in these early stage programs could potentially increase the value of your family’s cord blood stem cells.
How is cord blood collected?
After you enroll, you will receive a collection kit with everything your medical staff needs to collect your baby’s cord blood. You’ll keep your kit with your pre-packed hospital luggage so it will be ready when the big day arrives.
After your baby is born, and after the umbilical cord has been clamped and cut, your obstetrician or midwife will collect the cord blood. The blood will flow by gravity into the bag until it stops. The actual collection typically takes three to five minutes. After the cord blood has been collected, the blood bag your obstetrician or midwife seals the bag and places it back inside the collection box. Have a family member or friend call the toll free number on the side of the collection box to let us know the cord blood has been collected. ViaCord will send a private medical courier to pick up the blood at the hospital and transfer for processing and storage.
How do I enroll with ViaCord?
Enrollment is quick and easy. Call ViaCord at 1-888-758-5115 or your direct contact Jennie Fitzpatrick at 617-914-3672. You may not be asked if you have a coupon so mention Coupon Code 1277 to receive your $100.00 discount.
What does it cost to bank with ViaCord?
The cost for collection and processing is about $2200 plus a yearly storage fee of about $125. ViaCord provides multiple payment plans with payments as low as $51 per month. Payments don’t start until after the birth of your baby. ViaCord also offers an online gift registry where you can invite your friends and family to help you pay for this service. It is a truly unique baby gift -- one that lasts a lifetime.
