Every 15 seconds someone in the US needs a platelet donation.
Every 15 seconds someone in the US needs a platelet donation.
Help Those Fighting Cancer.
Do you know someone who has either beat cancer or is currently fighting? It could be a friend, co-worker or even a loved one. No matter who you know fighting cancer, the feeling is the same: “How can I help?”
Why Are Platelet Donations Needed So Badly?
Millions of Americans need platelet donations to survive and fight cancer, chronic diseases, or traumatic injuries. According to studies done by the National Cancer Institute in 2018, an estimated 1,735,350 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S.
What Are Platelets?
Platelets are colorless cell fragments called thrombocytes. Their main function is to stick to the lining of blood vessels and stop bleeding.
The process of clotting begins if one of your blood vessels gets damaged. The vessel sends out signals that are picked up by platelets. The platelets then rush to the site of damage and form a plug, or clot, to repair the damage.
Many lifesaving medical treatments for patients require platelet transfusions: Cancer patients, those receiving organ or bone marrow transplants, victims of traumatic injuries, and patients undergoing open heart surgery. Platelets must be transfused within just 5 days after donation - so there is a constant, often critical need for new and current donors to give to keep up with hospital demand.
Cancer Patients Need You
Cancer and cancer treatments can put patients at risk for low red blood cells and low platelet counts, known as thrombocytopenia. Blood and platelet transfusions are a critical part of cancer patients’ care.
Some types of chemotherapy can damage bone marrow, which lowers the production of platelets. Cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma attack the bone marrow as well.
A low platelet count can affect a patient's ability to produce healthy blood cells and even stop bleeding during surgical procedures. Critical treatments can be put on hold.
How You Can Help
Join others like you and become a hero for someone fighting cancer. Give them hope. If you have donated before, don’t stop now. Your platelet donations help patients kick cancer.
Platelets have a very short shelf life of only 5 days, which is why there is always a need for donations.
If you have questions about the donation process, visit our platelet donation FAQ.
Thank you to ALL who donate platelets. Because of you ALL and your selflessness, I'm able to live, raise my daughter, go on in life, and make memories. Your platelet donations saved my life numerous times. And are STILL saving my life. I can't THANK YOU enough. – Tiffany, Platelet Donation Recipient
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