How Blood and Platelet Donations Help Patients Fighting Cancer

Every October, communities across the country come together to raise awareness for those battling cancer. At LifeShare Blood Center, we see firsthand how the generosity of blood and platelet donors provides critical hope and healing for patients every single day.

Cancer doesn’t just attack the body, it takes a toll on every aspect of life. Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can destroy healthy blood cells along with cancer cells, leaving patients weak, anemic, or unable to fight infection. That’s where blood donors step in.

How Blood Donations Help Cancer Patients

Red blood cell transfusions help relieve fatigue and weakness caused by anemia, a common side effect of cancer treatment. These transfusions restore oxygen-carrying capacity, helping patients feel stronger and giving their bodies the support they need to continue vital treatments.

Plasma donations are sometimes needed to help cancer patients whose blood doesn’t clot properly, reducing the risk of serious bleeding complications.

The Lifesaving Power of Platelets

Platelet donations are especially important for cancer patients. Platelets are the tiny blood components that help stop bleeding. Many cancer treatments, particularly those for leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers, damage bone marrow — the body’s platelet factory. Without transfused platelets, even a minor bruise or cut could lead to dangerous bleeding.

Because platelets have a shelf life of only five to seven days, the need is constant. Every donation helps ensure hospitals have platelets ready when a cancer patient’s next treatment depends on it.

Why October Matters

October is a month of awareness, reflection, and action. While pink ribbons remind us of the fight against breast cancer, it’s important to remember that all cancer patients depend on the compassion of donors. Whether you give blood or platelets, your donation is a direct act of love — one that helps patients face another day, another treatment, another chance at recovery.

You Can Make a Difference Today

If you’ve ever wondered how to make an impact for cancer patients in your community, donating blood or platelets is one of the most powerful ways. It takes just a couple of hours, but the effect can last a lifetime.

➡️ Schedule your appointment today

Together, we can help ensure that every patient fighting cancer has the strength and support they need — one donation at a time.