Why I keep donating after 32 years
"In 1994, a colleague and I debated how much of a financial gift reaches people in need. We realized that when you donate blood, 100% of it directly helps someone."
Neither of us had donated before, so we went together for our first whole blood donation. It turned out to be much easier than we expected!
Discovering Apheresis (Platelet Donation)
While relaxing in the "Cantina" after a whole blood donation, I read a brochure about blood platelets. While whole blood can be donated every 56 days, platelet donations can be made as often as every 7 days (up to 24 times a year).
Although a platelet donation takes about 2 hours compared to 30 minutes for whole blood, it quickly became something I looked forward to. You get to sit back and watch a movie of your choice! Over the years, it evolved from watching movies my wife wasn't interested in, to catching up on R-rated movies away from little kids, to now sharing movie updates with my adult children.
Why Platelets Matter
Blood platelets play a vital role in hemostasis (blood clotting) and release growth factors that stimulate cell growth and tissue repair. They are critical for patients undergoing:
- Cancer treatments & chemotherapy
- Major surgeries & organ transplants
- Trauma & severe injury care
- Chronic blood disorder therapies
Now in my 32nd year of donating—primarily through the Red Cross—I strive for a monthly goal. I’ve reached 626 units donated (often donating double units in a single visit!).
Take a Friend and Give It a Try
If you have never donated blood, bring a friend along like I did in 1994. Start with whole blood, and if you're open to it, give apheresis a try—it is far easier than you think, and 100% of your gift reaches someone in need.