Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 17, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Utah has a special treat for platelet donors this Halloween season. Those who give platelets Oct. 17-Nov. 3 at Red Cross Blood Donation Centers in Salt Lake, Lehi and Layton can receive an exclusive Halloween-themed T-shirt, while supplies last.
The limited-edition shirt is available only to platelet donors at Utah’s donation centers. For more information, visit redcrossblood.org/giveplatelets.
“Platelet donors play an important role in helping hospitals care for people undergoing cancer treatment and other serious medical procedures,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “We hope this Halloween offer brings back familiar donors and introduces others to a type of donation that makes a tremendous difference in medical care.”
Why Platelet Donations Matter
More than half of donated platelets are used in cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and bone marrow transplants. Platelets are blood components that help control bleeding by forming clots. Cancer treatments can reduce platelet counts, leaving patients vulnerable to serious bleeding. Platelet transfusions are also used during major surgeries, organ transplants and treatment for traumatic injuries.
Unlike red blood cells, which can be stored for up to 42 days, platelets have a shelf life of just five days. This short storage period means hospitals depend on a continuous supply of donations, making regular platelet donors especially important.
What to Expect When Donating Platelets
Platelet donation, also called apheresis, collects platelets from the blood and returns the remaining components, including plasma, red cells and white cells, to the donor. The process usually takes about two hours. During that time, donors can relax, watch a movie or listen to music.
Eligible donors can give platelets every seven days, up to 24 times a year. People who recently donated blood may be able to donate platelets after seven days.
Utah Donation Centers Open for Platelet Donors
Platelet donation appointments are available at Red Cross Blood Donation Centers in Salt Lake, Lehi and Layton. Donors can schedule through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor codes SaltLakeCityUT, LaytonUT or LehiUT to make an appointment at one of the Utah donation centers.
Salt Lake Donation Center
6616 S 900 E
Lehi Donation Center
310 N 850 E
Layton Donation Center
852 W. Hill Field Rd.
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.
