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Platelets Across America Donor makes 586th Donation at LifeSource LifeSource welcomed Platelets Across America founder Al Whitney to the Glenview Donor Center as he made his 586th platelet donation in December. Illinois is the seventh state in Whitney’s quest to donate platelets in every state. The retired factory worker has named his effort “Platelets Across America,” and he is traveling the United States raising awareness about the need for platelet donations. “Donating platelets is a thrill,” Whitney, 70, said. “When you realize that your platelets are probably going to save the life of a cancer patient within four days – how can it not be a thrill?” An Ohio native, he has donated platelets in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Texas, Indiana and Kentucky. A blood donor since the mid-1960s, Whitney has given more than fi ve gallons of whole blood in addition to 586 platelet donations. He also has helped organize mobile blood drives in conjunction with LifeShare Community Blood Services. “I’ve actually donated in Australia, too, but obviously that doesn’t count toward the 50-states plan,” he said. The next stop for Whitney is Wisconsin where he will make donation number 587. |
