Want to maximize your blood donation? Consider this...

Every blood donation is a gift of life.
For whole blood donations about a pint of blood is collected and separated into two components: plasma and red blood cells. The entire process for donating whole blood takes approximately 30 - 45 minutes. Whole blood donors are eligible and encouraged to give blood every 8 weeks. Now you can customize your donation to suit your specific needs and the needs of our patients

Apheresis Donations
Apheresis is an automated donation process that allows you to selectively donate only the blood and blood components that are needed most.

Red blood cells - Double your impact
Red cells are the blood component needed most by hospitals. Through apheresis, using the state-of-the-art ALYX system, two units of red cells can be collected with no side affects to the donor. . and it uses a smaller needle. Those who donate using this technology are eligible every 112 days - ideal for those donors who have demanding professional and personal schedules, but who are also committed to continuously supporting the needs of patients in our local hospitals. The donation takes about 10 minutes longer than a regular whole blood donation. ALYX donors can donate the same amount of red cells three times a year, as they would if they were to donate whole blood six times per year.

Platelets - A very special donation
Our platelets are only collected through apheresis. Platelets control bleeding by helping blood to clot. Platelets help patients who have leukemia, cancer, and open heart surgery. Without platelet transfusions, they would suffer from lifethreatening hemorrhages. Unlike red cells, which may last up to 42 days after donation, platelets can be stored for only five days. That's why platelet donors are so important. When you give platelets, you know that there is a patient with a very serious health problem waiting for your donation. If your blood type is AB or A, you are the perfect type for platelet pheresis donation. The donation process takes about 90 minutes. Platelet donations can be made up to 24 times a year.

Whether for a newborn in need of a transfusion or a grandmother undergoing a serious medical procedure, your donation of blood or platelets helps patients stay alive. Compare that value to any other use of your time! Please give the gift of life! You'll feel very good about yourself. For further information call 863-297-1840.