Struggling to find money, many high school students over the age of 18 have looked to plasma donation for some extra cash. Plasma donation is the process of drawing blood and separating the cells from the liquid portion. The red blood cells and platelets are then used in hospital patients for treating bleeding and other disorders.

There are many plasma donation locations around Springfield including CSL Plasma and BioLife Plasma. Prior to donating, your medical history will be reviewed to verify your eligibility as a donor. The donation process typically takes around 1-2 hours from start to finish. First, your blood will be drawn and separated through a process called plasmapheresis. Then, the rest of your blood, minus the plasma, will be returned back to you.

“I started donating plasma the day after I turned 18 because my father from a young age taught me how it helped people. With plasma you can use it to help burn victims and even people with cancer and my dad said, ‘Why would you not help someone in need if you have capability for it.’ It stuck with me and now I donate as much plasma and blood I can to help others who really need it,” senior Jayda Thomas said.

Since there is such a high demand for plasma, these donation centers will pay you to donate. A prepaid card will be rewarded to you after a successful donation up to $700 a month; however, every donation site differs. Up to two donations every seven days is allowed. A refer-a-friend system is implemented in some donation centers offering extra money or points. If you are in need of money or are looking for a way to help out our community, do not overlook plasma donating!