Blood Platelet Donations Save Lives
Not everyone who is a blood donor can give platelets, but they are a much needed resource. They can be donated more frequently than blood, because no red cells are taken and iron levels are not affected.
The main problem with platelets, is that they only last five days.
David Dokelman is a man that donates platelets, in memory of his son Andrew. Andrew Dokelman was only eight years old when he fell ill with cancer of the soft tissue and required regular blood transfusions. He lost his battle with cancer, but his father was inspired by the generosity of others to become a donor.
“Andrew was receiving platelets and I wondered where they came from,” he said.
“I thought they were made, but then I realised people were donating them – that is why I have been donating since then.
“I am just hoping I am helping other people,” he said.
“People were kind enough to help my son when he was ill. I wish more people donated.
“I just want to go out and shout to people about donating.
“Because I am an old git it takes me an hour and 10 minutes to donate,
but when I was a bit younger it took under an hour. It doesn’t hurt at
all.”
Who can donate? The following requirements must be met for donations.
- Must have given blood without any problems
- Have blood groups O, A or B
- Must not be taking an anti-inflammatory painkiller
- In order to donate two or three doses of platelets, you need to have a higher than average platelet count
-via BBC News
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