Hi people,

I am a medical imaging faculty member helping to supply medical
equipment (by donation) to an Eastern European country.  I have been in
conversation with a surgeon, there.   He (and his pathologist) are
disappointed with their tissue sectioning results. Their permanent blade
is dull and they need a blade sharpener with associated materials. (I
don't know if their blade is even good enough to sharpen).
Unfortunately, their facility cannot afford a blade sharpener.  

In my search, locally, here in Ohio, I have found a sharpener in
storage, but it lacks a few key parts and the necessary grits.  From
another regional center, I have been able to obtain a disposable blade
holder which may or may not work - and some Shandon #49 blades to go
with it.  This is very hopeful, however, I am not sure they will work
with the machine they have and the surgeon is still hoping for a
sharpener.  I am traveling there this summer and would really like to
take them a more-modern microtome (preferrably) or a sharpener.  I want
to take it with...(can you tell I'm originally from MN?).

I am open to suggestions: fried.v@rhodesstate.edu

I know older machines are often kept for backup (just in case, Radiology
departments do the same).  Is someone able to donate a older (working)
microtome (that uses disposable blades) or a blade sharpener in good
working order?

If no functioning machine can be donated, at least one at a reduced
price might do.  And if anyone knows someone giving money away for a
good cause, let me know.

Thanks for your attention to this message.


Note to myself:
It's easy to sit there and say you'd like to have more money. And I
guess that's what I like about it. It's easy. Just sitting there,
rocking back and forth, wanting that money. 
--Jack Handy


Vincent P. Fried 
Asst. Professor of Medical Imaging
James A Rhodes State College
4240 Campus Dr.
Lima, Ohio  45804
(419)-995-8809