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Platelet donors needed during holiday period
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The holidays are once again upon us and so is the increased need for platelets.
Dec. 20, 2004
Platelet donors needed during holiday period
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The holidays are once again upon us and so is the increased need for platelets.
Each December, the UNC Hospitals Platelet and Plasma Donor Program braces itself for a potential shortage. Platelets only have a five-day shelf life, so despite busy holiday schedules and travel plans, the supply must be replaced constantly. In an effort to keep holiday collections up and our patients healthy, UNC Hospitals urges all first-time donors, whole blood donors and previous platelet and plasma donors to give a very unique gift this season: the gift of life.
Many of us take for granted the coziness of a warm house filled with family, friends, and the scent of goodies baking in the oven. Unfortunately, our critically ill patients at UNC Hospitals do not enjoy this same holiday fun. Those undergoing cancer treatments, open heart and transplant surgery, and patients with bleeding disorders cannot take the holiday off from receiving platelets. The need for this life-saving blood product never ends. Please get into the spirit of the season by helping others to enjoy this festive time of the year, please donate your platelets.
Donating platelets is a two-hour procedure that is very safe and closely monitored by highly trained technicians. Due to our sterile, one-time use equipment, there is no risk of contracting a disease. During the donation process you may watch cable television or a movie and receive snacks and beverages. All donations remain within UNC Hospitals to save the life of someone here, in your community. To donate, please call (919) 966-2370 or send e-mail to platelet@unch.unc.edu to schedule an appointment.
Media contact: Stephanie Crayton, (919) 966-2860, scrayton@unch.unc.edu
