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Apheresis (ay-fur-ee-sis), also pronounced pheresis, donors are extra special volunteers. They are the people who sit in the comfy “reclining” chairs in the Tacoma and Puyallup offices. These donors come in as often as every two weeks; they stay longer, and provide life-saving platelets. Platelets are provided to patients (adults and babies) who are recovering from cancer, heart surgeries, severe burns and other long term illnesses. Last year, over 3,000 units were needed to meet the needs of patients who received platelets.
If you meet the requirements for donating blood, you probably can give platelets. Apheresis donors must:
- be at least 18 years old
- be in good health
- weigh at least 110 pounds
- not have taken aspirin or products containing aspirin 48 hours prior to donation
- not have taken ibuprofen or products containing ibuprofen 72 hours prior to donation
Call Cascade Regional Blood Services for more information or to make an appointment (253) 383-2553.
Copyright 2005 Cascade Regional Blood Services
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