Donating Blood Platelets

Platelets are the component of your blood that help form clots and stop bleeding. Our children that have cancer, aplastic anemia and blood disorders especially benefit from platelets. Chemotherapy and radiation often times kills cancer and healthy cells and platelet transfusion greatly improve the outcome of our children. Platelet donations take longer then whole blood donations but this allows our donors time to relax and watch a movie or read a book.

Before Your Donation

• Abstain from taking any aspirin or ibuprofen for 48 hours before your appointment
  (acetaminophen, such as Tylenol is allowed)
• Eat iron-rich foods like lean read meat or green leafy vegetables
• Eat a good meal within three hours of donating
• Drink extra fluids beginning 48 hours prior to your appointment

What to Bring

• A photo ID
• A list of existing medical conditions you may have, and medications you take