Blood Donor Center

St. Jude always needs blood and platelet donations, but platelets are needed most by our patients and are the preferred donation. Platelets are a special kind of cell in your blood that controls bleeding. Every donation goes directly to St. Jude patients as part of their treatment. Your donation helps us offset the cost of purchasing blood products from outside sources.

Services we provide

You can schedule your appointment to donate blood and platelet products if you live in the Memphis, Tennessee, area, or if you plan to visit the hospital.

Your blood donor team

Our team of nurses and staff members will make sure that you are safe during your donation, and that it will be a pleasant and rewarding experience for you.

What to expect when you give blood

When you arrive at the Lauderdale gate, tell the security guard that you are here to donate blood. Reserved parking and free valet services are available for blood donors.

Donating blood and platelets is easy and safe. Many people find it rewarding to know they are helping patients. Anyone in good health over age 18 who weighs over 110 pounds can usually donate blood. Contact our Blood Donor Center, 901-595-2024, to get screened to see if you are eligible to donate.

Before you come, eat a good meal, drink plenty of liquids, and get a good night’s sleep the night before your scheduled donation time. Do not donate blood if you are having a medical issue or do not feel well.

When you arrive, we will give you educational materials to read about blood and platelet donation. You will then sign a form, stating that you have read and understood the materials. Feel free to ask any questions. We will take information about your general health, medications, and recent travel. We will also do some basic health checks.

It usually takes about 45 minutes for a blood donation and 2 hours for platelet donation. We will make this experience as comfortable as possible by providing a movie to watch, snacks, and a drink.  Following your donation, you will have time to relax and recover.