I started donating platelets a couple of years ago, after I went to donate whole blood and was found to have a high platelet count. If you can get away from the fact that you have a needle in each of your arms, it is really not bad at all. At the Red Cross they provide movies to watch and dote on you constantly for the 2 hours or so that it takes to donate. You are way more comfortable than the cots they provide for whole blood donations. It is a good feeling knowing that you are helping someone who has cancer or other clotting disorders. I totally recommend this to anyone who is looking for a way to give back!