A Negative

The best donation for your blood type is automated platelet donation.* By donating platelets, you can give more of this lifesaving blood product than you can with a whole blood donation. Platelet donation is a special automated process.

Automation allows you to donate certain components of your blood in larger amounts. During an automated donation, your blood is drawn into a machine which separates the needed component from the rest of the blood. The final component is collected in a donation bag, while the rest of the blood is returned to you.

To schedule your donation, call 1.800.GIVE.LIFE.

Platelets:

Shelf life:
5 days
Patients who need platelets:
cancer patients, organ transplant patients
Best blood type to donate:
A+, A-, B+, AB+, AB-
Estimated donation time:
1 ½ – 2 ½ hours
How often you can donate:
up to 24 times per year. We recommend you donate once every two to four weeks.
To be eligible you must:
  • be at least 17 years old (16 in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin with parental consent)
  • weigh at least 110 lbs.
  • be in good health

Click here to learn more about your blood type.

* Platelet, plasma and double red cell donations are not available at all Red Cross donation centers or mobiles. Please call 1.800.GIVE.LIFE to learn about opportunities in your area.