All blood types are urgently needed, including platelets.

DETROIT (Aug. 28, 2024) – As the American Red  Cross continues to experience a national blood shortage, donors like Susan George are helping those who depend on a blood product called platelets.

Platelets play a critical role in the treatment of millions of Americans fighting cancer, chronic diseases and  traumatic injuries. Every 30 seconds, someone needs platelets.

George, a resident of Armada in northern Macomb County, gives platelets every month to the Red Cross in honor of her late husband, Lee, who died of cancer in 2015. He received platelets and whole blood  transfusions as part of his treatment. She is grateful to the donors who “gave me the gift of time with my husband” during his cancer battle.

“The need for platelets is so critical,” George said. “When you consider people in need, it makes it easy to do.”

Platelets and all other blood types are urgently needed. Weather in recent weeks has added to the summer shortfall in donations by forcing the cancellation of nearly 60 blood drives throughout the country and causing about 1,500 lifesaving blood products to go uncollected.

Low platelet count is a major side effect of cancer treatment. Some types of chemotherapy can damage bone marrow, reducing platelet production. Without a platelet transfusion, cancer patients may not be able to receive the treatments they need.  

Unlike a whole blood donation, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes, a platelet donation can take about two hours. It is done using an apheresis machine, which is connected to both arms of a donor. The apheresis machine collects a small amount of blood  from one arm, removes the platelets, and returns the rest of the blood through the donor’s other arm; this  cycle is repeated several times.

Since platelets must be used within five days of donation, platelet donors are constantly needed.

“This is the most selfless gift you can give,” George said, “the gift of more time and hope for another family.”

First-time donors and those who give regularly are critical to the blood supply recovering. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors who give through Aug. 31 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email. Those who give Sept. 1-15 will receive an exclusive Red Cross raglan T-shirt, while supplies last.

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MEDIA CONTACT: David Olejarz / david.olejarz@redcross.org / 313-303-0606

About the American Red Cross:  The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes  international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.