Platelets are the smallest of the 3 major types of blood cells (platelets, red cells, and white cells).  They are made in bone marrow, and make up the smallest percentage of total blood volume.

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Platelets are necessary to stop bleeding.  They are "first on the scene" when you are wounded, helping the blood to clot so you can heal properly.

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Platelets are actually shaped like tiny plates in their inactive form, and they normally travel freely through blood vessels. When an injury occurs, the platelets are activated - they change shape and become fibrous and sticky in order to form a temporary plug for the injury.  

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After a platelet donation, your body is able to replace those platelets within about 24 hours!

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