Join ASPIRE in donating plasma today to help minimize the shortage affecting PANS patients across the country.
Lead a Plasma Donation Campaign in your area!

The more plasma donated, the more IVIG can be made. Producing IVIG is a complex process. The impact of donation is simple; it improves and saves the lives of PANS patients and people with primary immunodeficiency, CIDP, and other rare diseases across the world.

For more information, contact ASPIRE’s Plasma Donation Campaign. See below for information on: •About Plasma •How to Donate Plasma •How to Host a Plasma Donation Campaign •Information Packets

Why Donate Plasma?
During a whole blood donation, all components of the blood are collected. Whole blood donations can only be made every eight weeks in order to replenish the body’s supply. Plasma donation is done by plasmapheresis, in which the plasma is separated from the whole blood. The plasma is collected, but the whole blood elements, white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets are returned to the donor. This process takes 20-40 minutes longer than blood donations, which take about 15 minutes. Plasma donations can be made twice in a seven-days, with at least one day between donations.

Difference Between Plasma vs. Whole Blood Donation?
During a whole blood donation, all components of the blood are collected. Whole blood donations can only be made every eight weeks in order to replenish the body’s supply. Plasma donation is done by plasmapheresis in which the plasma is separated from the whole blood. The plasma is collected but the whole blood elements, white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, are returned to the donor. This process takes 20-40 minutes longer than blood donations, which take about 15 minutes. Plasma donations can be made twice in a seven-days, with at least one day between donations.

Who Can Donate Plasma?
To donate plasma, an individual must be at least 18 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, and pass all other required donor eligibility criteria, including a physical exam and screening for specific infections. Some donations centers require you to live within a certain radius of the center. All require three forms of identification, including a social security card.

How is Plasma Collected?
Plasmapheresis uses a medical device that separates the plasma from the blood through this safe and sterile process. The plasma is collected while the remaining blood (including red blood cells and white blood cells) is returned to the donor. You should not feel tired, as normally associated with donating blood. This process has been around since the 1950s.

How is IVIG Made?
Ig replacement therapy is prepared from the plasma of 10,000-50,000 individuals with healthy immune systems screened for several infections. After donation, the donated plasma is tested for infectious agents before being pooled with other donor plasma. Once the plasma is pooled, the plasma is tested for the markers of HIV and hepatitis A, B, and C viruses. The pooled plasma is divided up; it is fractionated and filtered to separate out the IgG molecule. Throughout the process, there are multiple steps taken to ensure the safety of the product: donor screening, viral removal, and inactivation of viruses. Donors undergo rigorous screening before they can donate. The FDA requires centers to maintain lists of unsuitable donors. Donors must return for a second donation within a set timeframe. If a donor does not return, their prior donation will be discarded.

How Long Does it Take to Donate?
The first visit takes about two to three hours; it includes screening, physical, and donation. Subsequent visits typically take under an hour.

How Often Can I Donate?
Healthy individuals can donate as often as twice in seven days, with at least one day between donations, as the body replaces the plasma removed during the donation process quickly.

Why Do I Have to Donate More Than Once?
Donors must provide a second donation within six months of the first donation. During the second visit, the donors must pass a second round of screening before they are deemed qualified, and their plasma may be considered for use. This ensures the safety of the product.

Is it Safe to Donate Plasma?
It is a very safe procedure with minimal or no side effects. During the screening, donors are given a physical exam, and their medical history is reviewed. On subsequent visits, donors’ vital signs are checked and asked questions about their health since their last donation. All the collection supplies are sterile and single-use only. These steps ensure donor’s and recipient’s safety.

How To Donate Plasma

Since plasma donation requires plasmapheresis equipment, it must be done in a plasma collection center, unlike blood drives, which can be done almost anywhere. Also, most centers only have a small number of plasmapheresis machines.

Each plasma collection center has its own set of rules; please make sure you call the center to find out the hours of operation and to ask any other questions you may have. Below is a brief overview of the donation process.

Before You Arrive
Review eligibility guidelines, including identification. Typically three forms of id are required: photo id (driver’s license), proof of address (utility bill), social security card.  Some donation centers require you to live in a certain radius.

Pre-Donation Screening
All donors must pass a pre-donation screening at every appointment. This ensures donor and recipient safety. First-time donors receive a brief physical examination. All donors have their vitals measured: weight, temperature blood pressure, and pulse. A technician will take a little blood from the finger to measure total protein and hematocrit levels. A brief medical questionnaire is taken.

The Plasmapheresis Process
The automated plasma collection device is prepared with a new sterile kit. A technician will prepare the donor’s arm with antiseptic, insert the needle, and begin the donation process. Blood will be drawn, the plasma will be separated from the blood, and red blood cells will be returned to the body through a process called plasmapheresis. Donor blood never enters the machine. The tubing and all other pieces of the collection device that come in contact with blood are discarded and replaced.

How Do I Find a Collection Center?

There are two leading organizations that maintain lists of donation centers. Donating Plasma provides an extensive database of centers throughout the nation that adhere to IQPP standards, which set donor and center management standards. We suggest you start with this website and find a location near you. They list many companies and locations all over the country.  

The American Red Cross website is searchable by zip code. Please note that not all Red Cross centers are equipped to perform plasma donations. Additionally, some Red Cross locations are ONLY accepting plasma from those with AB+-. In their location search. You can also donate platelets at more locations. You can set the filter to look for AB Plasma donation appointments.

Tips for Before & After Donation

  • Eat a healthy meal high in protein no more than three hours before giving plasma.
  • Avoid fatty foods (hamburgers, fried foods, cheese, ice cream, cakes, etc.) before donation; they can give plasma a milky appearance, which may interfere with the performance of laboratory tests making it ineligible.
  • Drink plenty of water or juice the night before and the day of your donation.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages the night before and day of donation and for at least four hours after.
  • Avoid smoking before and at least 30 minutes after. It may raise blood pressure before and make you feel dizzy after.
  • Be well-rested before your donation.
  • Reschedule your appointment if you are not feeling well.
  • If, on the off chance, you feel dizzy or faint, lie down with your feet elevated above the heart/head level. Drink something sweet and eat as soon as possible. If any adverse symptoms occur or persist, contact the center or see a doctor as soon as possible.

Host A Plasma Donation Campaign

Hosting a Plasma Donation Campaign is easy!

Hosting a campaign is easy and can be done by someone with the busiest of schedules. Really, you just pick a center near you, commit to donating twice in 6 months, and sharing ASPIRE’s ready-made flyers and social media images with families and friends in your area for one or two months.

Since most centers only have 3-7 plasma machines, we are not able to do a drive on one day. Thus we ask you and our other Campaign Coordinators to publicize for one or two months. Remember, people must commit to donating plasma twice.

  • Look up the nearest collection center to you. Donating Plasma. See the above section on How Do I Find a Collection Center.
  • Once you determine which donation center is nearest you, contact ASPIRE’s Plasma Campaign Coordinator. She will put your  Campaign on the master calendar.
  • Book your first appointment and find out all the requirements of the facility you have chosen so you can inform people who are joining your campaign.
  • Decide how many weeks/months you want to publicize your campaign. You will not be able to block off an entire day as many centers take reservations on a first-come-first-served basis and only have 3-7 machines in one location. Hosting the Plasma Campaign over a month or two is great as it provides your friends and family the flexibility to donate over a longer period of time.
  • Some centers will provide incentives to donors. So make sure to mention that as you are publicizing your Plasma Campaign.
  • Share the flyer & information about plasma.
  • Invite people to schedule their appointment. 
  • Encourage donors to submit a selfie after donating with a short note on why they are donating plasma! They can also post on their social media using the following hashtags: #DonatePlasmaToday #HelpPANSPANDASpatients #PANSPANDASawareness #Plasma #ASPIREtoHelp #IVIGforPANS
  • Keep encouraging people to donate.
  • After the drive, be sure to thank your donors!
  • Remind donors to make their follow-up appointment within six months.
ASPIRE Plasma Donation Campaign Toolkit (8.5×11)

We highly encourage you to host a Plasma Donating Campaign. It is an easy process.

Plasma Toolkit!

Please contact ASPIRE’s Plasma Drive Coordinator to be put on the master calendar, the website, and social media. Please provide the following information:

  • Your name and contact information
      • Plasma Center/s Information
      • Name of Donation Center
      • Address of Donation Center
      • Website of Donation Center
      • Phone number of Donation CenterDates of your campaign

Two Flyers (jpg)- more in Toolkit – Download today.

ASPIRE Plasma donate be a hero flyer ASPIRE Plasma donate be a hero flyer

 

ASPIRE Plasma Donation Campaign Images (Social Media-Sized)

Sample Facebook/Instagram Post for hosting a Plasma Donation Campaign with ASPIRE

Plasma collection in the USA fell by about 20% last year. Join me and ASPIRE in donating plasma to help minimize the shortage affecting PANS patients across the country. (Include a little of your own story if you want.) My Plasma Donation Campaign will run from insert date to insert date at:

    • Name of Donation Center
    • Address of Donation Center
    • Website of Donation Center
    • Phone number of Donation Center

Please let me know you have pledged to donate plasma and have made your first appointment or contact me if you need help. Please note you will have to donate two times within 6 months, and you must pass specific health requirements to be allowed to donate. ASPIRE has more details on the process. The donation center can provide you with all the requirements. Thank you for donating Plasma!!!

Click on the images below and save them to your phone or computer or download them all at once from the zip drive file.

 ASPIRE Plasma How to host a campaign


ASPIRE Plasma Campaign -Join1


ASPIRE Plasma Campaign Join2

ASPIRE Plasma Campaign Join3


ASPIRE Plasma be a hero 1


ASPIRE Plasma be a hero 1

ASPIRE Plasma Thank you


ASPIRE Plasma I donated

Plasma Donation Awareness Initiatives

 

  1. Awareness Booth: Set up an awareness booth in a prominent location. Provide information about PANS/PANDAS, the importance of plasma donation for IVIG, and how it can positively impact individuals. Offer pamphlets, brochures, and visuals to educate and engage people.
  2. Incentives and Rewards: Offer incentives to motivate participation and drive pledge recruitment. Consider rewards for individual donors, such as recognition certificates or small tokens of appreciation. Additionally, provide incentives for teams if choosing to do teams.
  3. Plasma Drive Competition: Host a friendly competition among different groups to see who can recruit the most pledges for plasma donation. Set up pledge boards or online forums where participants can sign up and commit to donating plasma. Offer incentives or prizes for the winning team to encourage participation and enthusiasm. This initiative fosters collaboration, friendly competition, and a sense of community while raising awareness and support for individuals with PANS/PANDAS.
    1. Team Formation: Invite participants to form teams consisting of students, faculty, or staff members. Teams can be organized. For example, if organizing a plasma drive at a school then organize by departments, residence halls, student clubs, or any other relevant grouping. Each team should choose a creative team name to build camaraderie and enthusiasm.
  4. Collaborate with Other Conditions: Host a collaborative event bringing together students on campus who receive IVIG treatment for various health conditions, including PANS/PANDAS, autoimmune disorders, and immunodeficiencies. This event aims to foster a sense of community, support, and awareness surrounding IVIG therapy.
  5. Panel Discussion: Arrange a panel discussion with individuals who have personal experience with PANS/PANDAS including personal experiences, challenges, and successes. Invite attendees to listen to firsthand accounts of living with the condition and the impact of IVIG treatment. Emphasize the importance of community support and how plasma donation can make a difference in the lives of those affected.
  6. Social Media Campaign: Launch a social media campaign to raise awareness and encourage plasma donation pledges. Create engaging posts, videos, and graphics to share facts about PANS/PANDAS, the need for IVIG treatment, and how plasma donation can help. Encourage followers to spread the word, share their support, and pledge to donate plasma. Use relevant hashtags to amplify the message and reach a broader audience.

 

Plasma Drive Ideas and Social Media Posts

 

Idea 1: “Plasma Hero Campaign”

Social Media Post: 🦸‍♂️ Be a hero in someone’s life! Did you know plasma donations are crucial for producing Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG)? It takes between 10,000-50,000 plasma donations to create one batch of IVIG, which can be a lifeline for individuals with PANS/PANDAS. IVIG treatment can help alleviate symptoms such as sudden onset OCD, severe anxiety, tics, and mood swings in those suffering from these complex neuroimmune conditions. Every donation counts. 💪 #PlasmaHero #IVIGDonation #SaveLives

Idea 2: “Donate & Win Campaign”

Social Media Post: 🎁 Donate plasma for IVIG and stand a chance to win exciting prizes! Your generosity could mean the world to someone battling PANS/PANDAS. IVIG treatment is essential for managing the symptoms of these debilitating neuroimmune disorders, which can include sudden behavioral regression, motor and vocal tics, extreme separation anxiety, and cognitive disturbances. Let’s make a difference together! 💉✨ #DonateAndWin #IVIG #PlasmaDonation

Idea 3: “Share Your Story Campaign”

Social Media Post: 📣 Your story could inspire others to donate plasma for IVIG! IVIG is a crucial treatment for individuals with PANS/PANDAS, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges they face. It takes between 10,000-50,000 plasma donations to create one batch of IVIG, highlighting the immense need for donations. Symptoms such as sudden onset OCD, severe mood swings, cognitive difficulties, and sensory sensitivities can severely impact the lives of those with PANS/PANDAS. Share your experience and encourage others to join the cause. Together, we can provide vital support to those affected by these neuroimmune conditions. 💬 #ShareYourStory #IVIGDonation #PlasmaHeroes

Idea 4: “Community Challenge Campaign”

Social Media Post: 🌟 Join our community challenge and pledge to donate plasma for IVIG! Individuals with PANS/PANDAS rely on IVIG treatment to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. With between 10,000-50,000 plasma donations needed to create one batch of IVIG, your contribution can make a significant difference. Symptoms of PANS/PANDAS, such as sudden behavioral changes, severe anxiety, and debilitating tics, can disrupt daily life and hinder social interactions. Let’s unite to ensure that those battling these neuroimmune disorders have access to the treatment they need. 💉💙 #CommunityChallenge #IVIGPlasma #DonateForGood

Idea 5: “Plasma Drive Event Campaign”

Social Media Post: 🚀 Exciting news! Our Plasma Drive Event is happening soon. Did you know that between 10,000-50,000 plasma donations are needed to make one batch of IVIG? IVIG treatment is a critical lifeline for individuals with PANS/PANDAS, offering relief from the debilitating symptoms they experience. Symptoms such as sudden onset OCD, severe mood swings, and regression in academic or developmental skills can significantly impact the lives of those with PANS/PANDAS. Your donation at our event can directly impact the lives of those in our community affected by these neuroimmune conditions. Come be a part of this life-saving initiative and donate plasma for IVIG. Spread the word! 🌐 #PlasmaDrive #IVIG #DonateLife

 

Previous Plasma Drives

Vitalant & ASPIRE Community Plasma Drive

March 15 – May 15 – locations throughout the country

With nearly 125 donation locations from coast to coast, Vitalant could be near you! Click here for Vitalant locations.
Make an appointment at Vitalant (Group Code 893A) or call 877-258-4825

Give a Pint. Get a Pint.
See flyer about how to get a voucher for a free Culver’s Frozen Custard! Culver’s is in many, but not all Vitalant locations. Click here for Culver’s Locations.

 

Thank you to Caoimhe Dardis, ASPIRE Research Review Committee Member, for organizing this drive with Vitalant!!

Clarksburg, West Virginia

October
BioLife Plasma Services
110 Emily Drive
Clarksburg, WV 26301

Hosted by:
Debbie Nelson – SEPPA – West Virginia

Kansas City, Missouri

October  & November
BioLife Plasma Services
8761 N. Ambassador Drive
Kansas City, MO, 64154
816-216-5551

Hosted by: Amie Rooks

Frederick, Maryland

October  & November
Grifols Biomat
1037C West Patrick Street
Frederick, Maryland 21702
301-360-2400
Schedule Appointment

Hosted by: Carol Gable
General Questions: Gabriella True

San Mateo & San Francisco, CA

Vitalant
Make an Appointment

  • 270 Masonic Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94118
  • 48 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401
  • 250 Bush St., Suite 136 San Francisco, CA 94104

Hosted by: Amy Stevick

Pittsburgh, PA

Biomat (Make Appointment Online)
12224 Frankstown Rd
Pittsburgh, PA, 15235
Mon-Fri 7am-7pm; Sat-Sun 8am-4pm
412-793-0150

Biomat (Call for Appointment)
1330 Western Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA, 15233
Mon-Fri 7am-7pm; Sat-Sun 7am-3pm
412-322-1909

CSL Plasma (Call for Appointment)
4313 Walnut Street <p
McKeesport, PA 15132
Mon-Fri 6am-8pm; Sat-Sun 7am-4pm
412-465-1136

Hosted by: Kathy Rubel

Grandville, Michigan

October  & November
BioLife Plasma Services
6331 Kenowa Avenue, SW
Grandville, Michigan 49418
616-667-0264

Make Appointment Online

Hosted by: Cody Lieberman

Grandville, Michigan

October
CSL Plasma
43552 Van Dyke Avenue
Sterling Heights, Michigan
Call to Make Appointment: 586-993-1513
Mon-Fri 6am-7pm; Sat-Sun 8am-4pm

Hosted by: Carolyn Gammicchia

Be A Hero – Donate Plasma