Recent winter weather across the region has significantly impacted bloodand platelet collections, putting a strain on inventory at LifeShare Blood Center. “Winter months are always challenging for the blood supply, but weather-related disruptionsmake it even more difficult,” said Mandi Johnson, Director of Community Engagement for LifeShare Blood Center. Unlikewhole blood donations, platelets can only be donated in-center and require specializedequipment and staff. Donors who are not already approved for platelet donation may need tocomplete a brief screening, including testing for certain antibodies, before they are eligible todonate. LifeShare encourages eligible donors to schedule an appointment as soon as conditions allowand to consider platelet donation if possible.