ST. LOUIS, Mo — The American Red Cross has an emergency need for eligible donors in the area to make an appointment now to give platelets to ensure critical patient needs are met. Platelets, the clotting portion of blood primarily given to cancer patients during treatment, must be transfused within five days of donation and, therefore, are always in great demand. Seasonal colds and flu are currently preventing many regular donors from giving, and the devastating impact of Hurricane Matthew has disrupted donations in many locations in the Southeast. More than 100 blood drives have been forced to cancel resulting in 3,500 uncollected blood and platelet donations. Healthy donors are needed now to meet the needs of patients at local hospitals as well as in areas affected by the hurricane. While there is an emergency need for platelets, donors can also help by giving blood as there is an urgent need for all blood types.

Fairview Heights Local Platelet Donation Center – Hours are through Oct. 23:

10/17 – Mon: 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
10/18 – Tue: 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
10/19 – Wed: 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
10/21 – Fri: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
10/22 – Sat: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
10/23 – Sun: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.