More and frequent donors needed to meet growing demand for vital blood source
We Are Blood (WRB), the sole provider and protector of blood for more than 40 hospitals and medical facilities in Central Texas, is launching a special, three-month campaign aimed at building awareness and supply for the fast-growing need for platelets. “Power Up”, September 1-November 30, awards platelet donors who donate five times within a three-month period. These donors will be able to choose one of four exclusive WRB prizes such as a large, canvas tote bag or an embroidered windbreaker.
Platelets are a small but crucial component of your blood that help with preventing further bleeding when injured. Platelets are needed by many patients daily, such as cancer patients, those with traumatic injuries and pediatric transplant patients awaiting surgery. However, platelets only have a shelf life of seven days, meaning that the supply must constantly be replenished. Due to a fast-growing community and related medical treatments, WRB has seen a 40% increase in patient need for platelets in Central Texas since 2017.
“There’s always a need for platelets. They are something your body replenishes and it’s a great way of helping someone who is really in need,” shares dedicated platelet donor, Bill Greene. “The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. I’m hoping to start seeing other donors that I get to know by name.”
While a small amount of platelets are collected from more common whole blood donations, platelet donors participate in a special donation process that is lengthier and collects more platelets to benefit multiple patients. While the platelet donation process can sometimes take up to two hours to complete, donors enjoy free Wi-Fi, TV, reading, snacks and refreshments while they donate. The Power Up campaign is one of many special thank you events for platelet donors throughout the year.
”Platelet donors are a very special group among our inspiring donor community at We Are Blood,” explains Nick Canedo, VP of community engagement. “Every day, their donations help our neighbors fight cancer and protect little ones awaiting surgery.”
Donors who donate five times during this period will be able to choose from one of four specialty items: a WRB windbreaker, a travel backpack, an oversize canvas tote bag or a four pack of Alamo Drafthouse tickets. Donations are accepted at any of WRB’s four donor centers.
Individuals who want to participate can schedule an appointment online or by calling 512-206-1266. Check locations for hours and days of operation.
About We Are Blood
We Are Blood is the nonprofit blood center serving Central Texas and the exclusive provider of our community’s blood supply. Since 1951, We Are Blood has drawn Central Texans together and inspired individuals to make a lifesaving difference for neighbors in need. Today, We Are Blood collects blood donations and serves over 40 hospitals and medical facilities in our 10-county area. Their mission: to provide and protect the community blood supply, to inspire Central Texans to save lives locally, and to always treat everyone they serve like family. For more information and to book an appointment at any of their four donation locations or multiple mobile drives, visit https://weareblood.org, Facebook or Instagram.