Cancer patients use nearly one-quarter of the nation’s blood supply, more than patients fighting any other disease.
Donating blood or plasma is a simple yet powerful way to make a significant impact, especially for children with cancer who rely heavily on these lifesaving donations. Cancer patients, in fact, use nearly one-quarter of the nation’s blood supply, more than those fighting any other disease, due to treatments like chemotherapy that can destroy healthy blood cells along with cancer cells. By donating, you can help manage these side effects, support their immune systems, and promote healing, with just one hour of your time potentially saving up to three lives. If you’re interested in making a difference, you can easily schedule a donation through trusted organizations like the American Red Cross, Vitalant, or Blood Centers of America. Your donation can provide the critical support these young patients need to continue their fight against cancer.
FAQS
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Cancer patients often need blood transfusions because treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can damage the bone marrow, reducing the production of healthy blood cells. This can lead to anemia, low platelet counts (which increases bleeding risks), and weakened immune systems. Blood transfusions help replenish these vital blood components, allowing patients to continue their treatments and recover more effectively.
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For whole blood donations, you can typically donate every 56 days (about 8 weeks). Plasma donations can be done more frequently, usually every 28 days, depending on the guidelines of the donation center and the donor's health. It's always best to check with your local blood donation center for specific guidelines.
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To prepare for donating blood or plasma, ensure you are well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water before your appointment. Eat a healthy meal rich in iron, such as spinach or lean meats, a few hours before donating. Avoid fatty foods, as they can affect the quality of plasma. Make sure to bring a valid ID, and if it's your first time donating, be prepared to provide some health history information.
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Your donation will provide essential blood components like red blood cells, platelets, and plasma that children with cancer need to combat the side effects of their treatments. Red blood cells help combat anemia and improve energy levels, platelets prevent bleeding, and plasma can boost the immune system and support blood clotting. Each donation can potentially save multiple lives, offering these children a better chance at fighting their illness and recovering.
Make an Online Appointment to Donate Blood or Plasma
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Red Cross Blood Donation
The American Red Cross is one of the largest blood collection organizations in the U.S. You can search for local blood drives, schedule appointments online, and find information about donation requirements. They also have a mobile app that makes finding and scheduling appointments even easier.
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Children's Hospital Orange County
The CHOC Blood Bank is available for blood and plasma donations, and it plays a crucial role in supporting children who need blood transfusions, including those undergoing cancer treatments. Donating at CHOC directly benefits patients treated at the hospital, ensuring that there is a consistent and reliable supply of blood products available when needed
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Children's Hospital Los Angeles
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) operates its own dedicated Blood Donor Center, where donations are critical for supporting the medical needs of its young patients. The center provides a crucial service by collecting and processing blood donations to ensure that they have a steady supply of blood for surgeries, treatments, and emergencies.
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Blood Centers of America (BCA)
BCA is a network of community-based blood centers. Their website provides information on member centers across the U.S., where you can schedule blood and plasma donations. It's a great resource for finding donation locations close to you.