Tag Archives: platelets

May 1, 2013 · 10:21 am

Donor of the Month

Congratulations to Indiana Blood Center’s Donor of the Month…

Cathy Summers

Cathy Summers of Greenwood, Indiana

 

Cathy is a committed platelet donor, donating every two weeks. She is also an I Pledge member and has pledged to donate platelets 24 times this year. Cathy enrolled in I Pledge because she believes it’s a “nice perk” as she plans to give anyway.

“Cathy is a wonderful woman and is a very dedicated platelet donor,” said Nicole Brosseau, donor center specialist in Greenwood. “We are fortunate for her support.”

Cathy’s first donation experience was during a blood drive hosted by her employer. When the company recruited employees to participate in their blood drive, they called on Cathy. Although terrified of needles, Cathy set aside her fear and gave an hour of her time and donated blood.

When asked what has kept her coming back, Cathy said, “I’m healthy and able to give, so as long I’m able, I will continue to donate.”

Cathy is a long-time blood donor, but recent circumstances have further impacted her views on blood donation. Cathy’s daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer, so donating blood now has an even greater impact on Cathy.

Understanding the busy lives of young people today, Cathy encourages them to donate when they can. “Just pay it forward,” said Cathy. “If the time comes where you need blood, you want to feel you have done your part.”

Now that you’ve read Cathy’s inspiring story, it’s your turn. Visit DonorPoint.org to join our life-saving network and schedule an appointment to Raise Your Sleeve.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Donor of the Month, Donor Story

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , ,

March 28, 2013 · 4:44 pm

Inside the Blood Donation Process – Step Three (Option 3)

donating double red cells

Step Three: Donating Double Red Cells

Moving forward with Inside Indiana Blood Center’s Donation Process mini-series, we would like to share an additional donation option —donating double red cells.

At Indiana Blood Center, you have a choice of donating whole blood, platelets, double red cells, or plasma. One double red cell donation results in twice as many red cells as a typical whole blood donation. Red cells transport oxygen to body cells, remove carbon dioxide, and contain iron in the hemoglobin.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • From start to finish the double red cell donation process takes about 60 minutes.
  • A donor can donate double red cells every 112 days.
  • Eligibility for donating double red cells is based on the donor’s hemoglobin and total blood volume, which is calculated using donor’s height, weight, and gender.
  • A double red cell donation can be made at all Indiana Blood Center donor centers and at some mobile drives.

Phlebotomy (process of drawing blood)
You will start by relaxing in a comfortable, reclining chair while a blood technician prepares to draw your red cells. Before your red cells are collected, it is important to determine which arm is best to use. If you think one side will prove to be more effective, feel free to share this information with your blood technician. Having identified the best suited arm, the blood technician will clean the site for 30 seconds with an antiseptic. He/she will then apply a blood pressure cuff, or tourniquet, to cause your vein to distend in preparation for drawing blood (you may also be asked to squeeze your hand to increase pressure in the vein to optimize the process). A single-use, sterile needle attached to sterile tubing and a collection bag will be used for phlebotomy.

Collection
The first part of your blood donation will flow through the tubing into a small bag called a diversion pouch. Any bacteria still present after application of antiseptic will flow with the blood to the diversion pouch. The diversion pouch also collects enough blood to provide samples for required testing for infectious diseases and to confirm blood type. The diversion pouch collects about 40mL of blood. The remainder of your blood donation will continue along the tubing into the collection bag.

To collect double red cells, your whole blood must be separated into its four components. Indiana Blood Center uses a process called apheresis to separate whole blood into its platelets, plasma, white blood cells and red blood cells components. The machine used then collects the components based on your physiology and blood count. Once the red blood cells are separated and collected in the blood bag, most of the platelets and plasma are returned to your body along with some saline to balance your fluids.

Well done! What a simple way to give back twofold.

Stay connected next week for more information on Step Four: Refresh (the last and final step of Indiana Blood Center’s donation process). In the meantime, visit DonorPoint.org to schedule an appointment to Raise Your Sleeve.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Inside Indiana Blood Center's Donation Process

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

March 21, 2013 · 4:14 pm

Inside the Blood Donation Process – Step Three (Option 2)

2012_1208_Bleed_Blue_1621

Step Three: Donating Platelets

As we continue with the Inside Indiana Blood Center’s Donation Process mini-series, we would like to share with you another donation option – donating platelets.

At Indiana Blood Center, you have a choice of donating whole blood, platelets, double red cells, or plasma. Platelets (the yellow stuff in your blood) are small cell fragments in the blood that help control bleeding. They are needed by many types of patients, including those undergoing cancer treatments, bone marrow or organ transplants, trauma procedures or open heart surgeries.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • From start to finish the process of donating platelets takes about one and half to two hours.
  • You can donate platelets every seven days.
  • The shelf-life of platelets is five days and therefore, the need for platelets is constant.
  • Platelets can be donated at all Indiana Blood Center donor centers and on our platelet bus.

Phlebotomy (process of drawing blood)
You will start by relaxing in a comfortable, reclining chair while a blood technician prepares to draw your platelets. Before your platelets are collected, it is important to determine which arm is best to use. If you think one side is will prove to be more effective feel free to share this information with you blood technician. Having identified the best suited arm, the blood technician will clean the site for 30 seconds with an antiseptic. He/she will then apply a blood pressure cuff, or tourniquet, to cause the vein to project in preparation for drawing blood (you may also be asked to squeeze your hand to increase pressure in the vein to optimize the process). A single-use needle attached to sterile tubing and a collection bag will be used for phlebotomy.

Collection
The first part of your blood donation will flow through the tubing into a small bag called a diversion pouch. Any bacteria still present after application of antiseptic will flow with the blood to the diversion pouch. The diversion pouch also collects enough blood to provide samples for required testing for infectious diseases and to confirm blood type. The diversion pouch collects about 25mL of blood. The remainder of your blood donation will continue along the tubing into the collection bag.

To collect platelets, your whole blood must be separated into its four components. Indiana Blood Center uses a process called apheresis to separate whole blood into its platelets, plasma, white blood cells and red blood cells components. The machine used then collects the components based on your physiology and blood count. Once the platelets are separated and collected in the blood bag, the plasma and red blood cells are returned to your body along with some saline to balance your fluids.

That’s a wrap. Feels good. How simple it was to donate.

Stay connected next week for more information on Step Three: Donation (Double Red Cells). In the meantime, visit DonorPoint.org to schedule an appointment to Raise Your Sleeve.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Inside Indiana Blood Center's Donation Process

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

March 8, 2013 · 2:11 pm

A True Hero

Judge Zore

Somewhere between balancing a successful career and family life, Judge Gerald Zore has found time to donate blood 739 times, dedicating an estimated 1,478 hours of his time at Indiana Blood Center to help people he will never meet.

Judge Zore began raising his sleeve to save lives while attending college. He recalls his biology teacher, Sister Adelaide, OSF, encouraging him to donate blood. Since his college years, he has continued to give.

Judge Zore, 71, was recognized as an Indianapolis Business Journal Health Care Heroes finalist at IBJ’s awards breakfast. He was one of three finalists in the volunteer category out of a large selection of nominees.

After donating whole blood a few times, an Indiana Blood Center blood technician explained to Zore the importance of  platelets, which are needed by many types of patients, including those undergoing cancer treatments, bone marrow or organ transplants, trauma procedures or open heart surgeries. Despite the two hours it takes to donate platelets, Zore didn’t think twice about making the switch. Again, he did it for one simple reason – because it is the right thing to do.

I always feel good about volunteering,” said Judge Zore. “I’m hoping this will encourage other people to do it.”

With each life touched by his blood donation, without ever knowing those he helps or expecting anything in return, Judge Gerald Zore is a true Health Care Hero.

Now it’s your turn, follow Judge Zore’s excellent example of selfless leadership and generosity by scheduling an appointment to Raise Your Sleeve at DonorPoint.org

3 Comments

Filed under Donor Story, Indiana Blood Center News

Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

March 1, 2013 · 12:08 pm

Donor of the Month

 

Jeffrey Lucas of Columbus, Ind.

Jeffrey Lucas of Columbus, Indiana

 

Jeff, 54, began donating platelets in 1997 and has been a dedicated Indiana Blood Center donor ever since.

Jeff’s commitment to our lifesaving mission comes from his loss of loved ones due to cancer. Platelets are often needed to provide treatment for cancer patients.

“My inspiration to donate is simply from knowing that I might be helping someone in need,” said Jeff. “This is something I can do.”

Many other types of patients also need platelets to restore their health, such as those undergoing bone marrow or organ transplants, trauma procedures or open heart surgeries. Jeff usually makes his platelet contribution every two weeks to help maintain a stable supply.

Platelet Technician Craig Mitchell said, “He has an easy-going personality and the staff is always happy to see him come in the door. Jeff has been donating platelets for years and is very committed to our mission.”

“In my life I have supported causes financially,” said Jeff, “I have volunteered my time, but I can honestly say that I find donating platelets the most rewarding. If even just one person is still with us because of my platelets then it’s worth it.”

We are humbled by Jeff’s dedication to giving the gift of life. Now it’s your turn. Follow Jeff’s outstanding lead and join our life-saving mission by committing to Raise Your Sleeve at DonorPoint.org. Make an appointment today. You will have someone’s undying gratitude.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Donor of the Month, Donor Story

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,

February 1, 2013 · 12:44 pm

Donor of the Month

Congratulations to Indiana Blood Center’s Donor of the Month…

James May, of West Lafayette.

James, 60, has been regularly donating blood since 1985. Even with a busy schedule as a 40-year letter carrier for West Lafayette, James found time to support Indiana Blood Center’s life-saving mission by donating platelets the maximum amount allowed every year since 2004.

Knowing platelets are constantly needed with a shelf life of only five days, James has committed to donating platelets whenever he is able.

As an adolescent, it was not easy for James to build up the courage to donate his first time. However, the rewarding feeling he experienced after donating brought James back.

“I was afraid of needles as a teenager. I made it a point not to look at the needle, and I still do. But I surprised myself. It wasn’t bad,” said James. “And it is the easiest way to save a life.”

Because blood donation is so important to sustaining the lives of Hoosiers and people everywhere, James encourages everyone to help donate blood.

“You might surprise yourself. People can do things they don’t even realize they can do,” said James. “What’s more important than saving lives? And it’s fun. I have a great time every time I do it.”

James’ commitment is quite compelling and we hold his dedication to our life-saving mission in high regard. Follow James’ lead and help save lives. Make an appointment today at DonorPoint.org.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Donor of the Month, Donor Story

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,

November 29, 2012 · 10:56 am

Donor of the Month

Congratulations to Indiana Blood Center’s Donor of the Month…

Daniel Orians of Carmel, Indiana

Daniel, a freshman at Ball State University, gave whole blood for the first time when he was 16 years old. Daniel felt uneasy and couldn’t stand the sight of needles, but it didn’t take long for Daniel to overcome his fear. He was back a year later and this time full of courage.

After learning from his mom (a dedicated platelet donor) about the lifesaving impact platelets have, Daniel decided to step up to the plate.

Daniel may be considered a “young” platelet donor, but young in this case does not indicate inexperienced. At the young age of 19, Daniel has donated 35 times (three whole blood donations and 32 platelet donations). Talk about dedication!

“Daniel rides his bike to his appointments rain or shine. That kind of dedication and passion isn’t something we see every day, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed,” said Chelsea, donor center specialist at Muncie donor center.

Daniel encourages all Hoosiers to take time to Raise Their Sleeves. The reward of knowing you helped save a life has proven to be well worth a small needle prick for Daniel.

“I love the feeling of knowing that within five days what I have donated could have saved someone’s life,” said Orians.

Follow Daniel’s lead and Raise Your Sleeve. The benefit is nothing short of lifesaving. Make an appointment today at DonorPoint.org.

1 Comment

Filed under Donor of the Month, Donor Story

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,

November 1, 2012 · 5:52 pm

Donor of the Month

Congratulations to Indiana Blood Center’s Donor of the Month…

Tony Scott from Carmel, Indiana

Tony said the first time he ever donated blood was at a military base when he was in his twenties. “It was an easy way to get the day off,” said Tony. “I wasn’t aware at the time of the impact donating blood had on others.”

Years later, Tony donated blood again, but this time he understood the impact donating blood had on his community.

Tony has donated at the Carmel donor center over 25 times. Tony started off donating whole blood, but on his fifth visit, a Carmel blood technician informed Tony about the short shelf life and the importance of platelets. Right then and there Tony became a dedicated platelet donor.

“Donating blood is a selfless way to give back,” said Tony. He then joked, “And it’s crazy, I keep making more of it.”

Tony is not only dedicated and committed to our cause, his light-hearted personality brightens the Carmel donor center each time he walks through the door.

“Tony is one of our most fun and entertaining donors here at Carmel,” said Yolanda, blood collection supervisor at Carmel donor center. “Tony always walks in to donate with a big smile on his face and numerous jokes and stories to tell. He could entertain us for hours!”

Along with the patients at 60+ hospitals around Indiana, we are fortunate to have Tony’s support.

Take Tony’s lead and Raise Your Sleeve. Go to DonorPoint.org to schedule your appointment today.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Donor of the Month, Donor Story

Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

September 20, 2012 · 2:54 pm

Get Lucky Season Ticket Giveaway

Thanks to all who participated in Indiana Blood Center – Get Lucky Season Ticket Giveaway. 535 people participated in Indiana Blood Center’s giveaway by donating platelets at least four times in three months. Winners were identified through a random drawing

Fourth Place Winners: All 535 donors that kept four platelet appointments received 2,500 DonorPoint points

Third Place Winners: 25 autographed Colts mini-helmets and team 2012 yearbook

3 Avon donors

2 Carmel donors

1 Columbus donor

1 Fishers donor

2 Greenwood donors

5 Indianapolis donors

5 Lafayette donors

2 Muncie donors

1 Mounds Mall donor

3 Terre Haute donors

Second Place Winners: One hour, three hole golf challenge at the Colts complex for six individuals and their guests

2 Carmel donors

1 Fishers donor

2 Greenwood donors

1 Indianapolis donor

First Place Winners: 2 Apple iPads

1 Carmel donor

1 Terre Haute donor

Grand Prize Winner: A pair of 2012 Indianapolis Colts season tickets

Chris Selvage, Indianapolis!!!

Chris with his Colts season tickets

Congratulations, Chris!

Meet Chris Selvage, a Fishers resident who began donating whole blood in 1986 as a way to give back to his community.

In May 2009, Chris learned about the importance of platelets when his mom discovered she had a low platelet count. After this discovery, Chris made a switch and began donating platelets.

Chris has made donating platelets part of his routine, donating every few weeks in order to “fulfill his role.”

Chris’s dedication to the lifesaving cause of donating platelets has provided him with a reward he never could have imagined.

“I was shocked when I heard I’d won,” said Chris. “I thought I might get ‘lucky’ with some of the other prizes, but didn’t think I would win the BIG one. I will admit it was difficult to focus at work the rest of the day.”

While Chris enjoys some of the perks that come with donating blood, what really motivates Chris to donate is his desire to do something for others.

“As Americans, we are proud of our troops that defend our country and save lives,” said Chris. “But shouldn’t we do something to be proud of ourselves? You can save lives too and you don’t have to enlist in the army to do so. A little poke in the arm is all it takes.”

Join Chris by Raising Your Sleeve. Make an appointment today at DonorPoint.org.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Donor Story, Promotions

Tagged as , , , , , , , ,

July 26, 2012 · 10:00 am

Donor of the Month

Meet Jim Valmore, husband, father, grandfather and dedicated Greenwood donor.

“It’s something I can do for the community and I love to give,” Jim says.

Jim started donating platelets in 1985 because his secretary had been diagnosed with brain cancer and needed platelets. This occurrence turned Jim’s wheels but his wheels never stopped.

To date, Jim has donated 47 gallons of life-saving components.

 “This number speaks to James’ dedication to the recipients of platelets,” said Matt Jackson, Supervisor Blood Collections.  “Personally I have gotten to know James very well over the years,  and it has been an honor.”

Indiana Blood Center wants to say THANKS to July’s Donor of the Month, Jim Valmore, for his dedication to being a leader and life-saver in his community.

Follow Jim’s lead, Raise Your Sleeve. Make your appointment at DonorPoint.org today.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Donor Story, Donor of the Month

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,