Blood and Platelet Donations
Posted on July 18th, 2007 at 9:28 pm by Jamie
Here is information if you are interested in donating blood or platelets for Parker.

First of all you have to identify yourself as a direct donor (specifically red blood cells or platelets) for Parker Underwood. If you are donating blood – he is A+ (other blood types are compatible) and needs CMV negative. If you aren’t CMV neg. then I think you might be able to donate platelets instead (I’ll double check this). The entire process is about 1 1/2, but the actual time donating blood is about 10 minutes. If you have had a tatoo within one year, are sick , or on certain medication (check with the center) then you are unable to donate.

For platelets – Parker needs to have pheresis platelets. On your end it is the same. The blood center needs to have a letter from his doctor on file since this is a special request (which should be there tomorrow).

Donor Guidelines and Information: In Ft. Myers call 239-939-1811 In Orlando call 407-248-5009

Outside of Florida: You still can donate!!!
You will have to give them Parker’s name, DOB (7/7/05); Hospital name (Arnold Palmer Hosp in Orlando); Doctors name (Dr. Gordon or Dr. Wall). Tell them it needs to be directed to patient services in Orlando, FL. You can check with your local blood bank for more information.

Donations can be made every 56 days.

If you need more information you can call the Orlando number above or let me know.

Thank you so much! It sure is excited when we see the pink tag that has a donors name on it. Knowing that a person specifically gave their blood/platelets for Parker is overwhelming.

***Here is more information

Jamie, Aaron….I just spoke to Nina Sullivan at Florida Blood Centers (800-852-0346 ext. 5014) and it is very important that when individuals go in to donate blood or platelets for Parker that they specify “RECOGNITION PROGRAM” in Parker’s name, if their blood type is incompatible or “DIRECT DONATION” in Parker’s name, if they are compatible. As far as donating platelets go….since all platelets are compatible they must say “DIRECT DONATION” in Parker’s name. If the individual donating is not sure of his/her blood type they should say “DIRECT DONATION” in Parker’s name. If it turns out they aren’t compatible it will automatically go to the “RECOGNITION PROGRAM” in Parker’s name, and credit will be given to Parker.
It is important for others to know that A+, A-, O+ and O- are compatible with Parker’s A+ Blood type. Again, all platelets are compatible and to give platelets you must schedule an appointment at the blood bank because it takes longer and is more complex.