Platelet donation is a process where a donor gives a specific component of their blood called platelets. Platelets are small cell fragments that help with blood clotting and are crucial for patients undergoing treatments for conditions like cancer or those who have suffered severe injuries. The donation typically takes about two hours and is done using a machine that separates platelets from the rest of the blood, returning the remaining components back to the donor. Unlike whole blood donation, which can be done every few months, platelet donations can be made more frequently, often every two weeks. This is because platelets have a shorter shelf life, lasting only about five days. Hospitals and blood banks rely on platelet donations to ensure they have enough supply for patients in need, making this type of donation vital for healthcare.