Pitching for Platelets

Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is excited to announce the highly anticipated return of their Pitching for Platelets contest, in partnership with the Cincinnati Reds. This rare opportunity is reserved for loyal Hoxworth platelet donors to shine on the grand stage of Major League Baseball.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is waiting for those who selflessly donate platelets at any of Hoxworth’s seven Neighborhood Donor Centers from April 1 to May 30. For every platelet donation made during this two-month period, donors will secure an entry into the drawing. Individuals can donate platelets once every two weeks, multiplying your chances of being the one chosen winner and etching your name in Cincinnati Reds history as the hero who threw the first pitch.

“The need for platelets has been on the rise in the greater Cincinnati area to help support patients in our award-winning hospitals,” explains David Oh, MD, chief medical officer, Hoxworth Blood Center. “Getting to award one lucky donor the chance to throw out the first pitch is our special way to say thank you for helping us Save Lives Close to Home.”

Hoxworth is emphasizing the need for new platelet donors as the need for platelets continues to rise as our local hospitals and patient populations grow. 

Educating the public about the need for platelet donors:

• More than 60% of Hoxworth’s platelet collections are transfused at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, most commonly for pediatric cancer patients.
• Platelets only have a shelf life of 5-7 days, meaning they are transfused for a local patient almost immediately after each donation.
• Platelets are essential for preventing excessive bleeding in patients undergoing cancer treatment, surgery, organ transplants and those with blood disorders.
• Hoxworth needs at least 60 platelet donors each day to meet the demand of local hospitals. 

A typical platelet donation takes roughly 90 minutes from start to finish, and platelet donors are eligible to give every two weeks. Platelet appointments are available seven days a week at Hoxworth’s seven Neighborhood Donor Centers located in Anderson, Blue Ash, Clifton (Central), Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, West Chester (North), Tri-County and Western Hills (West).

Featured photo at top of Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds. Photo provided.