Frederick, Md (KM) – The Red Cross is seeking more platelet donors, as these blood components are essential for clotting and are often used for patients with cancer or undergoing surgery. “Every 15 to 30 seconds in the U.S., someone needs platelets for either a surgical procedure or cancer treatment,” explained Curt Luthye, Executive Director for the Red Cross in Frederick, Montgomery, and Howard Counties.
Platelets are found in the blood, but donating them takes longer than giving whole blood. While whole blood donation typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, platelet donation can take about two hours.
Unlike whole blood, platelets have a short shelf life—only five days—which means they are quickly delivered to patients, often within the same week they are donated. This short storage period also allows donors to give more frequently. While whole blood donors can donate every 56 days, platelet donors can give up to 24 times a year.
One dedicated donor, Al Whitney from Ohio, is traveling across all 50 states to donate platelets. On August 6, he stopped at the Frederick Red Cross Blood Center on Thomas Johnson Drive to contribute.
Those interested in donating platelets can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment.
