Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 22, 2023) — In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the American Red Cross of Utah is inviting the community to share their gratitude in a truly meaningful way. On Thanksgiving Day, Red Cross blood donation centers will be open, specifically for much-needed platelet donations.
Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments in our blood that form clots and stop or prevent bleeding. They are vital in treating many health conditions, including cancer, chronic diseases and traumatic injuries. However, platelets must be used within five days of donation, creating a constant need for new donations.
“Thanksgiving is all about gratitude and giving. What better way to celebrate this spirit than by donating platelets, a gift that can help save lives,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Your donation could offer a lifeline to a patient in need and their family. It's a powerful way to show what we're truly thankful for.”
The following donation centers will be open on Thanksgiving Day:
Appointments are still available. This Thanksgiving, the Red Cross urges everyone to consider donating platelets – it's a way to give thanks and give life at the same time. Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Donating platelets
Donating platelets is slightly different than a traditional whole blood donation. The process is called apheresis donation, an automated procedure in which whole blood goes into a machine that isolates and takes just the platelets, then returns the other blood components – plasma, red cells and white cells – back to the donor.
The donation takes a little longer than donating whole blood, about two hours. Throughout the process, our Red Cross phlebotomists are there to assist the donors.
Blood donation is a critical component of emergency medical care, routine surgeries and treatments. “Every day, our trusted team of Red Cross of Utah nurses, phlebotomists and volunteers play a critical role in ensuring lifesaving platelets are available,” Ruster said. “On Thursday morning, our team will celebrate the holiday on the job, helping to maintain this essential supply for those in need.”
Last week for “Elf” socks
There is an added bonus for donating on Thanksgiving. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the film “Elf,” and create holiday cheer, all who come to give Nov. 10-30 will receive an exclusive pair of “Elf” + Red Cross socks, while supplies last. For more details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Elf.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.