Red Cross appeals for platelet donors

UNDATED - The American Red Cross has issued an urgent appeal for platelet donors in the Gainesville/Athens areas.

Officials says there's a shortage because of the weekend blizzard in the mid-Atlantic region. Platelets can be donated every two weeks, but they have a shelf life of only five days.

The Red Cross is asking platelet donors in areas not impacted by the weather to come in and donate platelets immediately. Platelets are the clotting factor in blood and are frequently given to cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

To make an appointment at one of the following donation centers, call 1-800-RED CROSS:

Athens Donor Center
Clarke Crossing Shopping Center
3525-3527 Atlanta Highway
Athens, GA 30606

Gainesville Donor Center
311 Jesse Jewell Pkwy SW, Suite 102
Gainesville, GA 30503